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In a nutshell, what happens is that a website creates a profile of your behavior and then shares it with other sites you visit that are in its network. None of your personal information, including your name, age, gender or location, is released; instead, an anonymous profile is created simply based on your actions online. But Mierzwinski says this is still an issue because it may limit the choices you have and even possibly the prices you are offered.The good news is, the government is paying attention and will likely implement some new rules focused on online advertising. Among the ideas is a do-not-track list that’s similar to the Do Not Call Registry for telemarketers. You would be able to list yourself and marketers would not be allowed to create anonymous profiles of you.In the meantime, here are some ways you can take control of the online advertising you see:•Learn how profiles are created from one of the advertising technology companies, BlueKai, which has a detailed explanation on its website.•Look for a white “i” icon on a blue background -- this symbolizes that the ad you see was based on behavior or demographic information.•On Yahoo! sites, look for the AdChoices icon that links to more information on the ads you’re seeing and your options for managing your privacy.•Download an Internet browser plug-in (called the Targeted Advertising Cookie Opt-Out) that automatically prevents sites from creating a profile of you at AddOns.Mozilla.org.•Read the privacy policy of sites you visit, scanning for information on opting out of their targeting program.
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Topic: online ads follow you (Read 412 times)
