The Landscape: Due to the large amount of data digital platforms collect about their users, advertisers can target specific audiences based on characteristics such as age, race, gender, religion, income, marital status, hobbies, political views, social media habits, and propensity to vote. The more data is available, the more advertisers can craft personalized messages.
Customized digital ads can be used to raise awareness about issues that affect users and promote political participation, but they can also be used to disenfranchise voters, spread lies that capitalize on fear, or manipulate public opinion — all outside the public eye.
