Váš chytrý televizor dělá snímky obrazovky každých 15 sekund a posílá je na servery výrobce. Recenzovaná studie to právě potvrdila
A study conducted by researchers at the Czech Technical University in Prague has confirmed that certain smart television models automatically capture screenshots of their display every 15 seconds and transmit them to servers operated by the device manufacturer.
The research, published in a peer-reviewed journal focused on privacy and embedded systems, analyzed network traffic from multiple smart TV units under typical household usage conditions. Using packet inspection and behavioral analysis, the team observed recurring data transmissions containing image payloads consistent with screen captures, occurring at precise 15-second intervals regardless of user activity or content being viewed.
According to the paper’s lead author, the data transmissions were encrypted but identifiable by their timing, size and destination — consistently linking to domains registered to the TV manufacturer’s cloud infrastructure. The researchers noted that no user consent prompt or system notification preceded or accompanied these transmissions, and the behavior persisted even when users disabled advertised data-sharing options in the television’s settings menu.
The study did not name specific brands or models in its public release, citing ongoing responsible disclosure protocols with the manufacturer and relevant data protection authorities. However, it confirmed that the behavior was present across multiple firmware versions of a widely distributed smart TV line sold in European markets.
In response to inquiries, the manufacturer stated that data collection practices are outlined in its end-user license agreement and privacy policy, which users accept during initial device setup. The company emphasized that transmitted data is used solely to improve product performance, diagnose technical issues, and enhance user experience features, and that all processing complies with GDPR requirements.
Digital rights advocates have called the findings a significant concern, arguing that the frequency and covert nature of the screen captures exceed what is reasonably expected or disclosed for diagnostic or improvement purposes. They note that such data could potentially expose sensitive information, including personal messages, financial details, or private video calls, depending on what is displayed on screen at the time of capture.
The Czech Office for Personal Data Protection has acknowledged receipt of the study and confirmed We see reviewing the findings to determine whether any violations of EU data protection law have occurred. No formal investigation has been initiated as of the latest available update.
Meanwhile, the research team has submitted a detailed technical report to the manufacturer under coordinated disclosure terms and is awaiting a response regarding potential firmware changes or user controls to limit or disable the screen capture function.