Is your email service account Googling you?
Who doesn’t have a Gmail account – or any email service as far as that goes? It was “free” so you signed up for one. That’s how they get you. Unfornately, you pay for that “free” Gmail account with your life. No not literally, but kind of. Google has turned email service into a profitable business by using your personal information. With over 500 million users, Gmail not only dominates online email service, but it also receives the most backlash regarding privacy laws. With all the lawsuits surrounding privacy, one has to wonder what information is Google using and how.
We all know Google reigns supreme in paid search. Well email service helps fuel some of those ads to you through Gmail. Google makes money off your personal information by scanning and indexing messages and using that data to show ads relevant to you. Unbeknownst to you, email service companies are tracking your interest with each message. This information even includes your financial business and personal connections. Google uses your info to generate advertising that may appeal to you. It’s all about getting the ads in your line of vision so maybe you will click to learn more.
Strategically speaking, Google searches for pertinent keywords based upon the frequency of context within your emails. A conversation thread about a particular topic will generate relevant ads. Google also uses the data for future ad targeting. Your ignorance is a gold mine for marketers and advertisers. Furthermore, your ignorance is truly bliss because the privacy laws are listed within the terms and conditions and privacy polices – but how many of us really read that text word for word? No one does really. That’s why we get upset when an ad for single dating appears after a friend emails us a candidate for a blind date.
In recent months, Google has experienced some legal issues regarding the privacy terms for Gmail. Some customers have complained, with some going as far as taking legal action against the Internet giant. However, Google defense for Gmail was made by explaining they do not have employees reading emails – it’s just a scanning device looking for keywords. And Google prevails. Plus you can’t beat all the storage space and lack of spam. Some states have laws restricting the use of private information; however, people keep signing up for free email services despite the known tracking.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you agree that it’s okay for search engines to target ads to users based upon information gathered through email services? Leave us a comment.