ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Microtargeting

Microtargeting is like playing a game of "tag" with your friends. You want to catch a particular friend, but you can't just run around and tag everyone. Instead, you need to find out where your friend is hiding and sneak up on them.

In the same way, companies use microtargeting to find and catch specific people. They use information about things like your age, where you live, what you like to do, and even what you buy to figure out how best to get your attention. This makes it easier for companies to sell you things like toys, clothes, or food by showing you ads that you might actually be interested in.

Just like in the game of tag, companies can't just randomly show ads to everyone and hope you'll see them. Instead, they use microtargeting to find the best ways to reach you, making sure they get right in front of you with exactly what you want to see. This makes it more likely that you'll pay attention and hopefully buy the product they're selling.
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