Samsung has activated a powerful anti-theft feature called "TV Block," allowing the company to remotely disable stolen smart TVs. Recently rolled out in South Africa after a warehouse looting incident, it demonstrates proactive security for connected devices.
Last month, amid widespread protests, thieves raided a Samsung warehouse. In response, the company remotely locked the affected units—but only those connected to the Internet.
Upon connecting online, the TV's serial number is cross-checked against Samsung's server blacklist. If flagged, TV Block disables all TV functionality, making it completely unusable for thieves.
Samsung states that this feature comes "preloaded on all Samsung TV products," ensuring only rightful owners with valid proof of purchase can activate and use their devices.
Warehouse thefts like this are straightforward for Samsung, as they track serial numbers easily. However, for TVs stolen from stores or a person's home, identifying the exact serial becomes more challenging.
Details remain unclear on whether individual customers can request TV Block activation or if it's reserved for mass incidents. Owners would need their TV's serial number, which many may not have readily available.
