LG BANS RESIDENTIAL PROXIES FROM SMART TV APPS

LG's decision targets the widespread use of residential proxies—legitimate IP addresses from real devices rerouted through proxy services. These tools allow users to circumvent regional content locks, access services unavailable in their location, or obscure their traffic. The ban affects LG's app store and streaming services on webOS-powered televisions. LG will implement detection mechanisms to identify and block proxy connections at the network level. Residential proxies have become popular among cord-cutters and international users seeking access to region-locked content. However, they're also used for credential stuffing, account takeovers, and scraping—driving stricter enforcement from major platforms. LG joins other tech giants implementing proxy blocks. Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video have deployed similar detection systems over the past two years. The move reflects broader industry efforts to enforce licensing agreements and combat unauthorized access, though it may frustrate legitimate proxy users in restricted regions.