Most of us log into Facebook every day. Sometimes once or twice, others 5 times a day. Some of us check it regularly if we have the application on our Blackberry or Droid phones. The advertisements that appear on an individuals Facebook relate to that person's interests. These advertisements show up because of previous things that the user has "liked". I think that this information is fair game to the advertisers. If we choose to "LIKE" something, then that information is part of your Facebook profile. Depending on the privacy settings that are set on your Facebook, people who aren't even your friend's can see your "LIKES". If you wouldnt want anyone knowing your interests, then why would you click "LIKE" in the first place?
When I think about how many Facebook users there are, it's kind of crazy to think that advertisers monitor each user to put their ads on the sidebar of their Facebook. I wouldn't go to the extent that it is an invasion of privacy, even though I can see why other people may feel differently. For an advertiser, just seeing a few of your "LIKES", they can base your interests and branch off of those to. For example, if you are really interested in the Detroit Tigers, you may have "LIKED" that Facebook page. Advertisers now may put advertisements on your sidebar that link to the Detroit Tigers, along with other professional athletic teams in Detroit. They might also advertise other sports, or more information on Major League Baseball.
This is the Facebook Marketing Toolbox. This gives advertisers 100 tips and tools to reach Facebook users. After reading through this, I can see why all the advertisements on my sidebar are things that interest me.
Overall, I don't think advertisers are invading our privacy. It goes back to what I posted in my previous blog. If we choose to put things out there, we need to accept the consequences.
Interesting post, especially as it relates to the specific example of Facebook. Do you think that the average fully understands the consequences of their actions or "likes", though? Do the older users (50+) who are now the fastest growing group on FB fully understand how the site is using their "likes"? And does it matter?
ReplyDeleteRather, last post should say "average user."
ReplyDeleteI agree with you completely. When you "like" something through Facebook, it isn't really something you're doing for yourself but for others, the point is to show others your interests.
ReplyDelete"If we choose to put things out there, we need to accept the consequences." A wise sentiment.