HTTP is an inherently request-based protocol. The HTML file that I request from the server has links to ads. A stock browser will request those ad links. Ad blo

HTTP is an inherently request-based protocol. The HTML file that I request from the server has links to ads. A stock browser will request those ad links. Ad block tells the browser not to. So it's more like if someone asks you "hey, I have free ice cream bars, want one?" and after you receive it he then asks "It also comes with this ad flyer. Want it too?" and you say "no, thanks" or take it and throw it in the trash immediately. Is it rude? Sure. Is it stealing? If the legality of the transaction was dependent on me accepting the ad, then that should have been negotiated before you sent me HTTP 200. But that's not in the HTTP protocol. If you don't like the protocol or don't think it's fair, don't use it.