Google is recruiting with Gmail
This screenshot was brought to my attention recently and it made me raise an eyebrow in surprise. Its no secret that Gmail scans your email for keywords, then serves up ads. I have seen PLENTY of privacy groups in arms about it back when Gmail debuted, but not much hoopla around that now. (At least, not from what I hear these days.)
Anyways, check out what else Google is doing with their Gmail these days.
Interesting, yes? Hmm… How many Gmail users are there on the planet these days? How many are discussing work-related matters in their Gmail? Job Search matters? How many are asking for programming tips? How many other companies are doing this with their email products? If no one else, is this an unfair and monopolistic move? More importantly, is it evil?
Just food for thought…
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Comments
Ben,
can’t speak with Jim in regards to where he was going with this, but, my concern about this would be the privacy issue.
It appears that Google seems to be scanning your email texts to find the buzz words for the advertisers. I think of this as spyware, adware on steroids. No keyword logging, but more of voyerism - my biggest concern is who else is privvy to this information
this article really does a great job at explaining it better http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/archives/001425.php
Comeon Jim, take off your MS hat for a second. This isn’t evil, this is genius! Also, why can’t they do recruitment advertising via their own product? I see plenty of other companies recruiting via Gmail, why can’t Google. Just found today, sponsored links in Gmail for:
- http://www.TeleportMyJob.com/Dubai._Jobs
- HaydenSearch.com
I know I have seen other companies with sponsored links here too.
My question is why isn’t Microsot doing this on Live Search?