Google is updating Android TVs to fix a major Gmail privacy issue

Google is working on a solution to prevent crafty individuals from accessing email from accounts connected to some Android TV devices. The Android TV operating system, preloaded on many smart TVs on the market, can allow people with physical access to access Gmail and other services associated with the owner’s account, as reported by 404 Media.

Because Android TV is just Android, it treats the owner’s Google account login as persistent, allowing them to automatically sign in to allowed Play Store apps. Google doesn’t allow Chrome to be installed on Android TV, but there is a workaround that can install it, allowing easy access to Gmail, Drive and other services – like demonstrated by YouTuber Cameron Gray.

In the video, Gray downloads “TV Bro,” a third-party Android TV browser that is available on the Play Store. Using the browser, Gray finds an APK for the Chrome browser in an online archive and installs it without any problems – although the app doesn’t support TV remotes, so a keyboard and mouse need to be used at this point. But once Chrome is open, all that’s left is to go to gmail.com and you’re done.

As 404 Media reported, the video was shared with Google by Senator Ron Wyden’s office, and the company said it was expected behavior and not a security issue. Following mounting pressure, however, Google is now promising to fix the loophole.

“Most Google TV devices running the latest versions of the software no longer support this depicted behavior,” said a Google spokesperson. 404 Media. “We are in the process of rolling out a fix for the rest of the devices.” Google also reminds users to keep their software updated.

Users who feel their privacy may be at risk in their environment may consider using a different Google account to sign in to Android TV devices. The separate account can be designated as a “family” and can be added as a member of the Google family so that the TV can still have access to YouTube TV and other services. Plus, you can rest assured that your viewing history won’t be interrupted by loved ones.