Is Your Television Spying On You?

Is seems like the more connected we get the more privacy we lose. In a report and investigation from "Consumers Report" they found that some smart TV's can track what you watch. The newer Smart TV from LG, Samsung, Sony, Vizio and others might be doing just that. It seems like they were trying to compete with Nielson in an attempt to do a better job at ratings. Most of us watch Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, RoKu and others. All of these need a Wi-Fi connection to operate.

So just how do they do it? They all have what is called Automatic Content Recognition (AGR) which monitors what you watch. And of course, you must be connected to the internet via hard wire or Wi-Fi. The AGR is turned on by default.

The next thing you should ask, can my TV be hacked? Can someone hack into my smart TV and take control of it or do something else? The answer to both is yes. How difficult this is depends on the TV manufacturer or the maker of the Ruku, Hulu or other hardware devices connected to your TV. They should have some type of security protection.

Can any of this be stopped? There are two basic ways, first is to unplug or disconnect the internet from your smart TV, this isn't always practical. The second will take a little work and digging into the menu options of your TV. Most of the TV manufacturers will have a way to shut off the Automatic Content Recognition, this will vary depending on the TV. You should be able to find this in your TV user's manual or on the manufacturers web site. The setting will usually be found in the System or Support setting in your setup menu.

It seems that we are getting more "connected" every day with this connection comes many opportunities for you to lose more of your privacy. One of the best ways to stop or limit spying is to make sure that your Wi-Fi router is updated and that you have it set to the highest security with a very strong password. As you add additional connected items to your home make sure that you understand what information they collect from you and how they will use it.

All security for your home, car, internet, etc. starts with you. Do your research and make the necessary changes to protect your privacy.

George Uliano is a security professional with years of law enforcement and security experience. He earned a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and Business graduating with honors. George holds three U.S. patents on different locking principles. This combination gives George and His Company Locking Systems International Inc the unique ability to provide its customers with the correct security at an affordable price.

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Most Popular Vacation Destinations in US

If you are wondering which are the most popular vacation destinations in the US travel, have a look at the article below and get some help to narrow down on your dream destination.

United States of America. The name is enough to make one dream of 'Dollars' and 'Hollywood'. People all over the world are forever ready for a chance to pack their bags and hop on the next flight. The land of plenty, it is full of tourist attractions and have something of interest for one and all.

Popular Travel Destinations in the United States

New York

Here We Go 'Cuz:
New York is a fruit pie that contains flavors from all around the world. It is a great vacation getaway for honeymooners and those looking for romantic retreat. One can visit the Times Square, Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The High Line (a public park that is suspended around 30 feet in air!), etc. Skyscrapers and bridges, waterways and islands, one gets totally mesmerized with the breathtaking surroundings. There is an endless list of things to do and see. And don't get me started on the food, with burgers and brunches, dinners and desserts, one won't want to leave, ever.

San Francisco

Here We Go 'Cuz:
A bohemian capital, San Francisco is a vacation destination that has plenty to offer. One of the most popular family destinations, a laid-back, cosmopolitan city. Also referred to as the Gay capital of the world, and an LGBT heaven on earth. Begin the day with a visit to The Walt Disney Family Museum, sightseeing in the ionic Cable Cars can follow. Alcatraz, the small rocky island gives a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and acts as a quiet retreat and picnic spot. The Japanese Tea Garden, Palace of Fine Arts, Fisherman's Wharf, South of Market Street (SoMa), Mission District, etc., add to the cart of 'must-see things'.

Washington

Here We Go 'Cuz:
Washington is the home to the President of the United States Of America, making it one of the most powerful political hubs in the world. There are many traditional attractions in Washington that include the US Capital, uptown clubs and bars, markets and interesting neighborhoods. Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, National Mall (The Mall), Jefferson Memorial, National Cherry Blossom Festival, etc., have to be on the list. One should surely not leave without treating the eyes with the captivating sight of the Washington Monument.

Las Vegas

Here We Go 'Cuz:
Las Vegas, the sin city, is where all the action is, acts as a playground for all grownups who want to be naughty. It's a place full of elaborate casinos where you can gamble the night away. Apart from these fun-filled gambling dens, there are spas for relaxation, clubs and other attractions. Visit the Bellagio Casino and Fountains for a breathtaking fountain show. Or, pay a visit to the MGM Grand Casino, Harrah's Casino, Luxor Casino, Rio Casino, Caesars Palace Casino, and many other high-profile gambling dens.

Here We Go 'Cuz:
The next destination on the list ought to be the city of all hot and happening things. Los Angeles is a place where one can enjoy great weather, beaches and go on a shopping spree. However, hold your horses as exhaustion can play its trick visiting the classic attractions of the city including The Grauman's Chinese Theater, the Paramount Pictures and Hollywood Walk of Fame. Squander time window shopping at the Rodeo Drive and spend a bright sunny day at the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. The Griffith Observatory, J. Paul Getty Center, Runyon Canyon Park and Staples Center are some other attraction that complete the city tour. Hollywood, here we come ...


Los Angeles

The US is an enigma that needs to be discovered on its own; cannot be planned or anticipated, it has to be spontaneous. If you are planning to visit one of the most exotic locales in the world, come to America. Uncle Sam calls for you.

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