You may have heard about the recent controversial changes to Google’s ad service which plans to track your activity on the web and then deliver adverts relevant to your interests.
As a Google Adsense user, I’ve been sent an email from them requesting I update my privacy policy before 8th April to reflect these changes (which I have done – it can be found on my About page). However, I can’t say I’m comfortable at all with these changes – adverts generated on MY content, fine, but I really dislike the privacy implications of these changes.
I don’t earn a huge amount from Adsense – a payment about once or twice a year – but it’s nice unexpected pin money. However, if anyone has any recommendations for alternatives that would deliver a similar sized ad block (combo of text and/or images fine) with fair returns and better T&Cs, then please could you let me know in the comments?
2 responses so far ↓
1 Blue Witch // 16th Mar 2009 at 1:24 pm
One can always clear one’s cookies after every browsing session, not have the Google toolbar enabled, and use a dynamic IP.
Does that still cover it, or have they found other ways to track those who wish to be untrackable?
I was offered £30 for a one-off link (to a reputable site too) in a particular post (3 years old) the other day. I turned it down. I am not for sale.
2 Pewari // 16th Mar 2009 at 5:19 pm
Yes, they are using cookies to track, but that still puts the emphasis on the user to protect themselves rather than the site owner, which goes against the grain for me.
Regarding being for sale, I have no problems with being paid for writing, even if indirectly through advertising :)
However, I will always make it abundantly clear (which is why I have a separate advertising box in the sidebar which is clearly an advert, even though it earns me far less that way) and if I get free stuff for review, I always disclose that (and if I dislike the product, I will still say that I disliked it).
I would draw the line at embedding a personal endorsement for money though, especially when not clear in the post that it was an advertising link. I’d have turned that down too.
The views expressed in these comments are not the views of the publisher. However, we believe in the rights of others to express their legitimate views and concerns. Any legitimate complaint emailed to pewari@may.be will be seriously considered and the post reviewed as desirable and necessary.
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