Google searches for information about cancer lead to targeted ads from alternative clinics
Briefly

In 2024, Google accounted for over 80% of online searches, with many users seeking critical health information. This has raised concerns, particularly since nearly 70% of Canadians utilize online searches for health queries. The competition for advertising in this domain means that users can encounter misleading information disguised as credible sources. The integration of search data into online advertising amplifies ethical, regulatory, and public health issues, as companies bid for visibility, pushing potentially harmful information to the forefront and compromising user safety.
The ethical concerns surrounding online advertising, particularly in the health sector, highlight the critical need for regulation to protect users from misinformation.
With nearly 70% of Canadians using online searches for health information, the potential for exposure to dangerous misinformation through search results is alarming and needs addressing.
Read at The Conversation
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