LG monitors reportedly install unwanted adware on new and old Windows PCs; McAfee pop-up ads appear automatically without user consent
Tom WarrenMcAfeeDell TechnologiesMicrosoftAlienwareLG ElectronicsMicrosoft CorporationDell

LG monitors reportedly install unwanted adware on new and old Windows PCs; McAfee pop-up ads appear automatically without user consent

Reports indicate that LG monitors are installing unwanted adware on Windows PCs, including McAfee pop-up ads, without user consent. This issue affects both new and older models, raising privacy concerns as users discover unauthorized software installations via Windows Update, prompting calls for LG to address the situation.

Boing Boing Boing Boing+3 sources14h ago
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LG monitors are reportedly installing unwanted adware on Windows PCs, including McAfee pop-up ads, without user consent. This issue has been confirmed by GamersNexus and various user reports, which indicate that certain LG UltraGear monitors trigger silent installations via Windows Update.79

Users have expressed privacy concerns as the LG Monitor App Installer installs itself automatically, promoting McAfee services and requiring broad permissions, including access to geolocation and online activity.

A recent test by GamersNexus revealed that McAfee ads appeared on 31 out of 32 boot-ups, highlighting the intrusive nature of this software. The app does not provide users with an option to decline installation or even notify them of its purpose.

Complaints about this behavior date back to at least 2024, with reports suggesting that the issue is becoming more widespread across various LG monitor models. Users have noted that the app installs without any consent prompt, raising significant privacy concerns.8

While Windows does offer some options to block such installations, these settings are not available on Windows Home editions. As of now, LG has not issued a public response to these findings, leaving many users frustrated and seeking answers.5

The Microsoft Store listing for the app indicates it has extensive access to system resources, further compounding user concerns about privacy and data security.

As GamersNexus pointed out, LG's actions reflect a troubling trend in which manufacturers prioritize software promotion over user consent and privacy.

Key Insight
“LG has not publicly responded as users report automatic installs since 2024. GamersNexus documented McAfee ads on 31 of 32 boot attempts, with the app requiring permissions to access all system resources, internet connection, and geolocation data.”
CuriousCats studied:
1
Boing BoingBoing Boing
“LG's screens have apparently entered their "consent is someone else's problem" phase: some monitors can trigger silent Windows software installs, while some LG TV terms reportedly tell you to warn guests they may be recorded by AI voice features to comply with local wiretapping laws.”
Boing Boing →
2
GizmodoGizmodo
“LG, the maker of popular high-end screens, has been quietly stuffing its current and even past monitors full of adware.”
Gizmodo →
3
Phandroid
“Windows Update quietly downloads LG’s extension and software packages.”
Phandroid →
4
The Verge
“The LG Monitor App Installer installs itself by default and has started pushing unwanted ad notifications to users’ screens.”
The Verge →
Ask CuriousCats
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