As a society, we have become increasingly dependent on technology and
the internet in our daily lives. Social media platforms, search engines,
and other online services have made it easier for us to connect with
others, access information, and make purchases. However, with this
convenience comes the trade-off of privacy.
Advertisers, particularly those on social media platforms, collect vast
amounts of personal information about their users in order to
personalize ads and improve their bottom line. This information can
include everything from your age and gender to your political opinions
and religious beliefs. While this may seem harmless, the reality is that
this information can be used to make judgments about you and even
discriminate against you in areas such as housing and credit.
This type of targeted advertising is particularly concerning because it
can perpetuate societal inequalities. For example, if an advertiser
knows that you are a person of colour, they may target you with ads for
subprime loans or housing in low-income neighbourhoods. Similarly, if an
advertiser knows that you are a woman, they may target you with ads for
lower-paying jobs or products that are marketed towards women at a
higher price.
