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it could be useful in targeting ads, i.e. tracking users other website habits to show them much more relevant ads. Let's say HN has ads. And it sees that you j
by vaksel 17y ago
it could be useful in targeting ads, i.e. tracking users other website habits to show them much more relevant ads.
Let's say HN has ads. And it sees that you just came from a Python tutorial site. Instead of showing you a random programming book, the ad would show you a series of Python books.
- tptacek 17y agoLet's say you're a staffer for a Republican congressman, and I'm an innocuous web page you've visited. Oh, look! You've visited a lot of gay pornography sites! I think I'd like you to start paying me $50 a month now, so I can "protect" you from negative publicity.
- bunn 17y agoFunny, I thought that only the left could be gay.
- johnnybgoode 17y agoBecause a Democratic congressman wouldn't have any political problems whatsoever if found to have visited gay porn sites. :)
- tptacek 17y agoI didn't give much thought to this example but I think it makes the point OK.
- paraschopra 17y agoActually, in targeting, user's short term interests are much more valuable than the long term interests. If a visitor is on HN, you would already know his immediate interests. Knowing that he came from a Python tutorial site, that too you can't say if he is regular there or one and off, would provide marginal value which is hard to justify.
- CGamesPlay 17y agoIs there any A/B testing that backs this notion up?