The belief that consumers crave more targeted, personalized ads has become a digital advertising mantra. But it’s not entirely true.
Sure, there are a slew of studies by trade groups and retail and marketing vendors showing that “relevant” ads increase engagement and purchasing.
Adlucent found that seven in 10 consumers yearn for personalized ads. IAB presentations state that consumers want fewer, but more personalized ads. Epsilon found that four-fifths of consumers are more likely to make purchases when a brand gives them a personalized experience. In a Segment survey, 71% of consumers were frustrated that their shopping experiences were too impersonal. The consumer demand for personalized content is at an all-time high, according to Adobe.
But when consumers are asked about the data collection practices that empower personalized ads, they tell a different story.
Network security firm RSA found that just 17% of internet users surveyed in the US and Europe said it was ethical to track their online activity for the purpose of personalizing ads. Only 25% thought it was ethical either to tailor news feeds or make purchase recommendations based on browsing history.