Microsoft responds to LG monitors installing McAfee ads on Windows - Ars Technica

What the report says

Ars Technica reports that Microsoft says LG will stop showing McAfee pop-up promotions through an app that has been automatically installed on some Windows PCs when certain LG monitors are connected. The app, called LG Monitor App Installer, is delivered through Windows Update alongside monitor drivers and has displayed offers such as a 30-day McAfee trial, according to user reports cited by Ars.

The issue drew wider attention after complaints on Reddit and a video from Gamers Nexus, which said it reproduced the behavior on multiple Windows 11 systems while testing an LG UltraGear 3GX900A-B gaming monitor. Gamers Nexus reported that, after installation, a pop-up appeared at startup, usually advertising McAfee, though it also saw occasional promotions for LG software and services. Microsoft Windows and devices executive Pavan Davuluri said LG had agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up as an immediate step.

Ars notes that removing the McAfee ad does not resolve broader concerns about monitor-related software installing without a clear user prompt and then promoting other apps. The article cites Gamers Nexus’ concern that the app’s permissions and privacy terms may be broad, and says Ars asked LG about the app’s purpose, affected models and privacy issues. LG acknowledged the questions but had not answered before publication.

The report places the episode in a wider context of Windows device companion apps that can install automatically for peripherals under certain conditions. Ars says Microsoft’s developer guidance indicates such installations may occur without user notification, a practice that has also drawn criticism involving other hardware vendors.