During the holiday season, many people search for gifts and resolutions online. However, did you know your search history could be exposed to others? If you and someone else share the same IP address, companies like Amazon, Google, and Meta may assume a connection between you and the other person. As a result, they might show ads based on your search history to those using the same IP.
While cookies track preferences across websites, having multiple accounts logged into a single device can also lead to different ads appearing. This means that sensitive searches, like those for financial/personal problems, housing disputes or legal services, could result in your loved ones seeing similar ads. The solution? Use incognito mode to browse privately, preventing this type of data leakage.
Unexpected ads can be intrusive and compromise your privacy. For example, if you're searching for relationship advice, your partner might see divorce-related ads, or if you’re exploring mental or physical health topics, family members could start receiving similar ads. Without privacy controls, this could easily lead to embarrassing or unwanted situations.
Often, users unknowingly consent to data collection by accepting cookies, which track preferences for targeted ads. However, users often don’t realize how long this data is retained or how it's used. Companies should be required to clearly inform users about how their data is tracked and for what purposes. Providing more control over ad preferences could help users manage what they see online.
To regain control over your privacy, block third-party trackers through your browser settings. Using ad blockers on Chrome or other browsing platforms is also effective, along with incognito mode and VPNs. Incognito mode, for instance, prevents your browsing history from being stored but doesn’t conceal your IP address. It’s especially useful if you’re planning a surprise gift for someone or want to keep your searches private.
By taking these steps, you can ensure your browsing activity stays private, keeping your online experience free from unwanted ads.
Image: DIW-Aigen
Read next:
• New Study Reveals Most US and European Websites Fail to Comply with CPRA and GDPR Privacy Laws
While cookies track preferences across websites, having multiple accounts logged into a single device can also lead to different ads appearing. This means that sensitive searches, like those for financial/personal problems, housing disputes or legal services, could result in your loved ones seeing similar ads. The solution? Use incognito mode to browse privately, preventing this type of data leakage.
Unexpected ads can be intrusive and compromise your privacy. For example, if you're searching for relationship advice, your partner might see divorce-related ads, or if you’re exploring mental or physical health topics, family members could start receiving similar ads. Without privacy controls, this could easily lead to embarrassing or unwanted situations.
Often, users unknowingly consent to data collection by accepting cookies, which track preferences for targeted ads. However, users often don’t realize how long this data is retained or how it's used. Companies should be required to clearly inform users about how their data is tracked and for what purposes. Providing more control over ad preferences could help users manage what they see online.
To regain control over your privacy, block third-party trackers through your browser settings. Using ad blockers on Chrome or other browsing platforms is also effective, along with incognito mode and VPNs. Incognito mode, for instance, prevents your browsing history from being stored but doesn’t conceal your IP address. It’s especially useful if you’re planning a surprise gift for someone or want to keep your searches private.
By taking these steps, you can ensure your browsing activity stays private, keeping your online experience free from unwanted ads.
Read next:
• New Study Reveals Most US and European Websites Fail to Comply with CPRA and GDPR Privacy Laws
