Internet users can opt out of targeted adverts

[Jazzy]

Internet users will be able to avoid tracking devices that allow advertisers to follow their movements online under new guidelines.



A new on-screen “icon” will enable users to choose what advertising is pitched to them while they surf the internet following a surge in complaints about targeted advertising online.



Under the plans, which will come into force by the summer, a new symbol will feature the letter “I” inside a triangle on online adverts generated by “cookies”.



These are used by web companies to create profiles based on a person’s shopping or viewing habits on the internet. The data is then used for “Online Behavioural Advertising”.



Experts say internet users find the technique intrusive. It allows companies to direct their display adverts at individuals who, through the websites they have visited, have indicated an interest in certain goods or services.

But the warning system, to be introduced by the European Advertising Standards Alliance and the internet Advertising Bureau of Europe, will allow users to “opt out” of such advertising.



Some websites, such as Yahoo!, have begun using the triangle icon on a voluntary basis in Britain but from June all advertising networks will be required to display the symbol or face sanctions.



Full article: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technolo...et-users-can-opt-out-of-targeted-adverts.html

 

[DrLeftover]

You have to laugh at things like this.



Yes, it will be an option.



No, it won't work as some advertisers will simply go around the restriction by 'farming out' their ads to third parties which will then simply send them out like they do now.



It's the same way they get around the junk fax, do not call, and direct mail opted out restriction now in the US.

 

[Evil Eye]

You have to laugh at things like this.

Yes, if you want to disable cookie-based ads, disable cookies. It's that simple.

They can still track your behaviour if you do, but at the expense of their computers. They'll have to save stuff in giant databases. Guess what? That's more expensive

And disabling iframes and JavaScript will mean only the sites you visit directly can store... well you visiting them.