I believe techno-sociologist Zeynep Tufekci’s Ted Talk about online advertising was interesting, but also very terrifying. This Ted Talk reminded me of an article I read just last week about how companies are using smartphone locations for advertising. Please check it out in the #open-forum channel. Zeynep made an excellent example regarding Youtube’s algorithm. Youtube is monitoring and tracking what the viewer’s interests are through the recommendation engine.
The internet collects as much data as possible about its users. A lot of people do not realize the dangers of internet technology. Software companies can analyze and sell certain data to seek insight on consumer behavior. Such as, advertisers and retail outlets. Even though intimate details can be shared, businesses claim that their interest is in the patterns not the identities. The location data can identify preferences and greatly help nearby business because of targeted advertising. That is the whole purpose of the unique algorithms. Algorithms are continuing to evolve with specific tactics and strategies for attracting and maintaining an audience.
I think it’s terrifying how everyone is being controlled and monitored almost all the time. Tufekci was explaining how this system gets darker like Youtube suggesting more controversial or graphic videos and the risks of being manipulated through Google and Facebook. I sometimes think does the US have any proper legal regime for personal privacy? Tufekci’ s Ted Talk was very eye-opening.
