3 Ways to Get Rid of AdChoices
Introduction:
AdChoices is an online advertising program that displays personalized advertisements on various websites based on user preferences and browsing habits. While the intention behind AdChoices is to enhance your online experience by offering relevant ads, some users may find them intrusive and wish to remove them. In this article, we’ll explore three ways you can get rid of AdChoices and enjoy a more ad-free browsing experience.
1. Block AdChoices using browser extensions:
One of the easiest ways to block AdChoices ads is by installing a browser extension or add-on designed for ad-blocking purposes. These extensions work by preventing the ad scripts from running on the websites you visit, thus disabling the display of AdChoices ads. Some popular ad-blockers include:
a) Adblock Plus (ABP): This open-source extension is available for a variety of web browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. ABP allows you to create custom filters and whitelist specific websites if you want to support them through ad revenue.
b) uBlock Origin: uBlock Origin is another well-regarded ad-blocker that works efficiently without hogging too many system resources. It’s available for both Chrome and Firefox browsers and uses filter lists to block unwanted elements like AdChoices.
2. Opt-out of personalized ads through AdChoices:
AdChoices provides users with an opt-out option that allows you to prevent advertisers from collecting data about your browsing habits and displaying personalized ads. To opt-out of personalized ads, follow these steps:
a) Visit the following website: http://www.aboutads.info/choices/
b) Once there, click on the “Opt out of all” button or individually select the companies from which you want to opt-out.
c) This method requires third-party cookies, so make sure they are enabled in your browser settings. Keep in mind that opting out does not remove all ads; it only prevents them from being tailored to your interests.
3. Adjust browser settings to block third-party cookies:
Blocking third-party cookies can significantly reduce the number of AdChoices ads displayed on websites since most of them rely on cookies to function. To disable third-party cookies, follow these steps for popular web browsers:
a) Google Chrome: Open the menu (three vertical dots in the top-right corner) > Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data > Toggle off “Allow all cookies” and select “Block third-party cookies.”
b) Mozilla Firefox: Open the menu (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner) > Options > Privacy & Security > Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, select “Strict” or “Custom” and ensure that “All third-party cookies” is checked.
c) Microsoft Edge: Open the menu (three horizontal dots in the top-right corner) > Settings > Cookies and site permissions > toggle off “Allow all cookies” and enable “Block third-party cookies.”
Conclusion:
While AdChoices can be helpful for some users by providing relevant advertisements, others may find them bothersome or intrusive. By implementing any one or a combination of the methods discussed above, you can reduce or eliminate AdChoices ads from your browsing experience and enjoy a more distraction-free time online.