Google to track the property buyers that got away

From Global Edge

It's also possible that Google will give a relevancy boost to adverts on its search network from sites that a user has already visited. Humans prefer the familiar, and this would increase the perception of relevance of the paid search results.

Be careful which sites you visit

Have you ever visited a site that you wouldn't want your friends or partner to find out about? I have and some of them are excellent!

The big problem with this is that people use the Internet to search for solutions to problems, and many of these issues are personal. If you knew a third-party advertising company was monitoring your search behavior would you use the Internet in a different way? I would. There will also be huge commercial pressure for Google to share this data. Just think how the insurance industry could reduce risk and increase profits by knowing the sites you visit.

Google is attempting to solve one of the most pressing Internet marketing problems of our time, but in so doing is creating another one: violation of privacy. Google argues that it's OK because people will be able to opt out of this tracking. For many though, particularly those in government, it will be seen as a step too far.

View post at Globaledge.co.uk.

Copyright (c) 2009 Global Edge Marketing Ltd.

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Submitted by on March 30, 2009 - 2:58am.

If any of us thinks we can do anything about being tracked... the joke's on us!
Susie Blackmon
http://www.BuckingtheRealEstateTrend.com

 
Submitted by Jerzy (George) Szkup on March 30, 2009 - 10:00am.

George Szkup
www.DestinationTucson.biz

From a business point of view this is a very good idea - but how much would it cost me?

Being tracked? - it is sort of personal preference - I, for one, would see it as a commplimnet if some one wanted to "track me" -and spend money for nothing?

George
Tucson Home Advisor LLC - Realtors

 
Submitted by Bruce Hahn on April 5, 2009 - 5:54am.

American Homeowners Grassroots Alliance
We should not have to "opt out" of having our privacy invaded. Instead Internet companies should be required to get explicit "opt in" permission for any tracking or other activity that invades privacy.
Google has been invading peoples' privacy (this example and posting Google Street View pictures on the Internet for all to see) and taking peoples property (uploading copyrighted books and making their extended content available for Google searches). Google's response has been that if you happen to find out that we are violating your privacy or taking your property, then you can opt out, if you can figure out how to do that.
Congress will consider Internet privacy legislation this year. Let's hope they put an end to the notion that Internet companies have the presumed right to invade our privacy unless we catch them and tell them to stop.
Bruce Hahn
American Homeowners Grassroots Alliance