ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Targeted advertising

Targeted advertising is when companies use information that they have about you to show you ads specifically designed to interest you. Companies will try to figure out your age, gender, interests, and other things that might make you want to buy their product or service. For example, if you like sports, a company might show you an ad for a new type of sports shoe. This is meant to make you more likely to click on and buy the shoes.