Your Roku TV is watching you — 3 settings to change right now
Roku devices collect extensive data on users' viewing habits by default, including what is watched, for how long, and interactions with ads, which is then shared with third-party advertisers. While users cannot opt out entirely, adjusting specific settings can significantly reduce data collection. Three key changes include disabling ad tracking, blocking microphone access, and turning off Automatic Content Recognition (ACR).
- ▪Roku logs viewing activity and shares it with third-party advertisers by default.
- ▪Limiting ad tracking prevents personalized ads on Roku but does not stop other platforms like Netflix or Prime Video from collecting data.
- ▪Blocking microphone access stops channels from recording audio through the remote but disables voice search and control features.
- ▪Turning off Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) stops Roku from monitoring content displayed from any HDMI-connected device.
- ▪ACR is considered Roku's most invasive tracking feature as it compiles viewing data across all connected devices for ad targeting.
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Entertainment Streaming Streaming Devices Your Roku TV is watching you — 3 settings to change right now How To By Kaycee Hill published 2 May 2026 The hidden Roku settings that are snitching on your viewing habits When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Roku knows your guilty pleasures.
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