As a modern human, it’s almost impossible to avoid being targeted by one of the big tech companies. Let me explain:
Tech companies have millions of users because people enjoy their platform and find it very useful and entertaining. But these tech giants don’t provide this service for free. Sure, there is no actual cost to join and use their services, but you’re also providing what they want/need: Targeting advertising.
When it comes to Facebook, Google, Instagram and others, tracking software is real and it’s the most important thing to these big companies. If you think you are not being tracked, guess again. You wouldn’t be using the application if you didn’t sign off on the user agreement that specifically outlines their terms. These terms allow them to track your activities. Alarmingly, you are still being tracked even when you aren’t on the site. Actually, that’s the best part of this whole thing if you are the tech company. And as a user, you have no choice if you want to use their platform.
Sadly, the terms are excruciating to actually read. Small print, complicated language – one has to wonder if this is by design just to turn off any ambitious users who attempt to actually read and understand the terms of service.
Want proof of big tech tracking? Ever notice how you suddenly start receiving ads for things that are currently on your mind? Well, no, they can’t read your mind, but if you think back to what you did in the past few days, their tracking cookie attached itself to something you did. Whether it was an email, or a visit to a certain website, the algorithm picks up on that action. It’s shocking, to be honest, if you don’t remember what action would have triggered that.
Now, there are limits. There are things that are simply illegal. For example, they can’t listen in on your phone conversations or have access to your phone’s camera and/or microphone without your permission – in other words, they can’t eavesdrop. Though I sometimes wonder.
I’m not a conspiracy theorist, but I could swear that I’ve received ads on subjects that made me wonder about the source (what triggered it). For example, receiving ads for trips to Bali when I know that I had not been searching online or gone to any travel sites. I could swear that I had only been talking about it to a friend via cellphone.
But I can’t be 100% sure. No doubt, I have done something to trigger those ads. Otherwise, it would mean someone has been eavesdropping illegally. These multi billion dollar companies would never risk that, right?
I honestly don’t know. I’m sure the temptation is there though.
Who is watching? I mean, what is preventing them from doing anything illegal? I’m sure some branch of government must be on it – given the importance of privacy lately.
Again, probably nothing to worry about, it’s just me being paranoid.
Fortunately, the tech companies don’t have carte blanche when it comes to how they conduct business. They are heavily regulated by governments the world over, and my prediction is that it’s as bad as it’s going to get.
Time will tell…
