LG got caught showing ads for McAfee to people who dared to plug in a monitor. An investigation by Gamers Nexus revealed that plugging in certain LG monitors triggered Windows Update to automatically download the LG Monitor App Installer without user consent. This wasn't just a display driver; it was a utility app.
The saga required Microsoft to step in and pressure LG to stop putting adware onto people's computers.
"We’ve connected with the team at LG and as an immediate next step, they have agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up from their app," said Windows chief Pavan Davuluri. "We appreciate LG working with us toward a shared goal of a better experience for our mutual customers."
LG has since stopped shoving adware onto people's PCs, but the company's official statement on the matter makes me question if any lessons have been learned.
"LG Electronics reiterates that McAfee is not installed automatically and is never installed without the user’s explicit consent," said LG in a statement shared with Windows Central and other outlets.
The company added, "During a limited period in the United States, a McAfee trial offer was also presented as an optional recommendation. McAfee was never installed automatically and always required a separate user choice and consent."
LG was never accused of installing McAfee without user consent, at least not by any reputable outlets I've seen. The company was accused of installing the LG Monitor App Installer without permission. That app is essentially a portal to other LG apps. It also controversially showed ads for McAfee.
I argue that no software should be installed without permission. Even more relaxed users would expect a monitor to install an app that's actually related to the monitor, not a showcase for other apps such as McAfee.
I chuckled at the part of the statement that read, "After reviewing customer feedback, LG removed the McAfee recommendation." I suppose that's one way to refer to the backlash and Microsoft intervening.
In case anyone from LG is still confused about definitions, installing an app without permission that shows ads for McAfee is adware. You don't have to install McAfee without consent for it to be adware.
Below is LG's full statement with emphasis provided by the company.
LG's full statement
"LG Electronics reiterates that McAfee is not installed automatically and is never installed without the user’s explicit consent.
The LG Monitor App Installer was designed to help monitor owners discover optional LG applications that enhance productivity, customization and monitor performance.
When compatible LG monitors are connected, the Installer can make related software available to help customers access monitor-specific features and functionality.
During a limited period in the United States, a McAfee trial offer was also presented as an optional recommendation. McAfee was never installed automatically and always required a separate user choice and consent. After reviewing customer feedback, LG removed the McAfee recommendation.
The LG Monitor App Installer does not collect personal information from customers' devices. Its function is to identify compatible monitor models and present applications supported by those models."
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