In order to provide web users with relevant ads, targeting must be achieved. The degree of ad targeting will determine ad relevancy.
But how targeted can ads be without infringing on our privacy? How much information should organizations be able to utilize?
Information that we provide voluntary is one type of information that can be used to target ads. For example: Name, age, date of birth, interests, etc.
Information that we provide involuntary is another. For example: Tracking users’ web surfing habits.
NebuAd wants to copy the contents of an ISP’s traffic streams, analyze usage and serve up ads to individual users based on traffic patterns.
On a side note, NebuAd packages their services in a completely different manner. As stated on the NebuAd web site:
“NebuAd, an online media company that provides state-of-the-art online privacy protection for consumers, today announced it is introducing new industry-leading online privacy protections, offering alternatives for robust, direct consumer notification and unprecedented innovations in opt-out technology. This move further empowers Internet service provider (ISP) subscribers to control their web experience. In addition, it reinforces NebuAd's commitment to delivering world-class innovation in Internet advertising by setting unparalleled standards in online consumer privacy protection.”
What information should we be comfortable with providing to companies online? What information should remain undisclosed? Is it really possible to keep information secluded online?
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