Samsung is tightening its smart TV app policies after security researchers uncovered software that was quietly using owners’ home internet connections without their knowledge, raising fresh concerns about privacy and cybersecurity. The issue was identified by Norwegian cybersecurity company Mnemonic, which found that several Samsung TV apps contained software capable of turning a user’s internet connection into part of a residential proxy network. Such networks allow internet traffic from third parties to be routed through residential internet connections, making activity appear as though it originates from ordinary households. Samsung has since responded by introducing new restrictions for its smart TV app ecosystem. Last month, LG also banned proxy-enabled applications after reports claimed approximately 42 per cent of apps available through its smart TV store included comparable functionality.