Of course, those involved deny everything.
Big companies are doing everything they can to find out what their potential customers are looking for when browsing. With the information obtained in this way, they can bombard each internet user with targeted ads and encourage them to buy. However, this tactic only works to a limited extent, as people do not always search for what they want to buy.
The legend that our smart devices are eavesdropping on us has been around for a long time. Although the explanation for these cases has so far mostly been found in extensive data collection, it now appears that we are getting closer to making direct wiretapping a reality.
Marketers at media giant Cox Media Group (CMG) recently detailed the idea behind their so-called “Active Listening” service, which is as terrifying as it sounds. The “technology” would basically use the microphones built into smart devices to eavesdrop on users and then target advertising based on the information thus obtained.
“What would it mean for your business if you could target potential customers who, in their everyday conversations, actively communicate that they need your products and services?”
– can be read at the beginning of CMG’s sales offer.
The vast majority of internet users have long assumed that they are being eavesdropped by tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon and Meta. THE 404 Media confirmed as early as last December that all four mentioned technology companies were partnering with CMG, promoting direct wiretapping.
A Mashable recently reached out to the major companies involved, all of whom have spoken out about the incident. Meta, Amazon, Google and Microsoft have all denied working with CMG to target ads more precisely.
“Meta does not use phone microphones for advertising and we have been publicly stating this for years. We are reaching out to CMG to clarify that their program is not based on Meta data.”
– said the spokesperson of Meta in his statement.
The official added that they will investigate whether CMG has violated Facebook’s general terms and conditions and, if necessary, will take legal action. The spokesperson is one For 2016 entry also drew attention, in which Meta clarified: it does not use the microphones of users’ phones for advertising purposes.
Amazon responded with the following:
“Amazon Ads has never worked with CMG on this program and has no plans to.”
A Google representative said:
“All advertisers must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as Google Ads policies, and if we identify ads or advertisers that violate these policies, we will take appropriate action.”
Last but not least, Microsoft also came up with its own statement:
“We are investigating the incident and will take the necessary action in accordance with our policies.”
Although the companies involved deny the wiretapping allegations, privacy concerns about smart devices remain among consumers. Advertisers already know almost everything about us, and by making use of artificial intelligence, in the near future they can bombard us with much more personal and targeted ads – even without eavesdropping.
Source: www.pcwplus.hu
