In October 2023, the YouTube launched a global initiative to combat the use of ad blockers such as AdBlock Plus.
It allowed users to view just three videos before presenting two choices: whitelisting the site or opting to subscribe to the Premium service.
Currently, both YouTube and Goal are facing criminal prosecution in Ireland due to collecting data to display targeted advertisements, thus violating a local anti-digital abuse law.
A question of privacy and consumer rights
The issue of privacy and consumer rights came to the fore when YouTube officially began testing on October 26, 2023.
Users who use ad blockers, extensions or software to prevent ads from appearing on the platform’s videos now receive a warning after three cumulative views, warning them of access blocking.
Image: istock/Reproduction
From the fourth access onwards, the video is blocked from viewing. Users have the option to join YouTube Premium, which offers ad-free access, downloads of videos and background playback on mobile devices.
Additionally, they can adjust their ad blocker settings to include the site in a list of domains allowed to display ads normally.
The third option, which is more radical and preferred by YouTube and Googleis the complete removal of the ad blocker.
While alternative browsers like Brave can still play YouTube videos without displaying ads, there is uncertainty about whether this ability will remain.
There is speculation that, soon, they could also be affected, becoming mandatory for displaying ads, something that their developers would no longer be able to get around.
YouTube justifies this action by arguing that the use of ad blockers harms the sustainability of the platform.
Sought after by the local and international press, both Google and Goal have not commented on the legal actions they face.
Support our work ❤️
If you enjoyed this article, consider leaving a tip to help us keep publishing great content.
