Behavioral Advertising

Behavioral advertising is used to try to match the ads you see while browsing online with your interests. This is done by companies placing cookies on your computer (and I’m not talking about the edible, yummy cookies). Based on the sites you visit, interest categories are attached to these cookies and they allow advertisers to build up a picture of your browsing interests and habits. I’m not going to lie, sometimes those ads have helped me find something I was looking for cheaper. But sometimes it can get quite annoying being shown and reminded things I cannot afford that I’ve previously searched for.

There are a few ways that you can avoid these ads. Different browsers have settings and features that can help you control your personal information online. Checking these options can help you decide which browser is right for you. For example, some browsers options include whether you want to accept cookies or not and how long to allow them to stay on your computer. Some browsers have additional privacy features that you can download and install.  Also, certain browsers allow you to browse in “private mode”. Browsing in private mode will not save any history that you are browsing.

Another option will be to opt out. Some companies will give you the option to opt out of receiving targeted ads. Even though it won’t stop you from receiving ads but it will stop them from sending you ads from your interests. Here are a few sites that can help you control information collected about you :

http://www.youronlinechoices.com.au/

http://www.evidon.com:8080/consumers-privacy/ad-notice

http://www.privacychoice.org/

Resources:

http://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/privacy-resources/privacy-fact-sheets/other/privacy-fact-sheet-4-online-behavioural-advertising-know-your-options