More ads, suddenly?

[Lucien Nunes]

I've noticed across multiple devices in the last few days what seems to be an increase in advertising intensity. So much so on the mobile that I had to install a different ad blocker otherwise the forum was basically unusable, the ads completely drowning out the content. If it is a real change and not a result of my browsers being updated etc, then my impression is that it is counterproductive.

 

[static zap]

A few websites seem to have got wise to AdBlockers , PrivacyBadger , and not allowing me in without more cookie action ..Technology and admen ..leapfrog ..
Come on "Froggy_tech" ..
(or has my browser Fire fox stoved in ?)

 

[davesparks]

I'm having the same problem with the forum, it has become all but unusable due to the massive amount of additional adverts.

I guess @Dan is just trying to encourage all of the members to leave and go elsewhere.

 

[nicebutdim]

Had some problems with ad blocking in general a month or so back and disabled it, but still block unnecessary trackers and scripts.

Currently I'm not seeing these additional ads, but do see several small banners that simply state "advertisement". Having checked, it's Ghostery that's blocking these ads and others might find it worthwhile installing this browser extension.

 

[Bob Geldoff1234]

Try 'Scriptblock' for Chrome.I stops alot of nasty things running in chrome.I am currently running privacy badger,adblock and scripblock all together and this forum is looking just fine to me

 

[James]

I did chat with @Dan yesterday about the increase in ads.
I was assured it is a temporary thing whilst software is updated.

 

[Dan]

Apologies.

My bad. As usual.

Google have implemented their suggested changes regarding GDPR.

Tools to help publishers comply with the GDPR - Google AdSense Help

Google has a long history of taking a user-first approach in everything that we do. As a part of our commitment to users, we never sell personal information and give users transparency and control ove

support.google.com

We managed to sway it for a while. And we controlled the ad-code. Now ANY page with ANY code on it (not just ad-code, so tags which say we comply with GDPR and the California Act) throw up ads once you click agree.

So I'm finding a work around to only show the options field to non-subscribers / supporters. Assuming they're fine with the bog-standard settings of mostly off anyway.

Hang in there. I'm on it this week. Apologies once again.

I've also re-worked www.ElectriciansForums.co.uk into a blog this week. Started with just a mess around but it's becoming quite something of its own thing. Will be able to use this to rank for things the forum can't.

I'll need lots of images for it soon. So I'll start a thread soon asking for various types of images and will need you lads to reply if you have the image, and I'll choose one, and credit the image to you. Either your forum profile, or your website if you have one. Our .co.uk has a lot of 'weight' with Google so good for SEO.
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Are you seeing this notice guys? - I asked @Lou to let you know that we're on it. But not sure what settings she's used. Can't get the staff lol

*hids in a cupboard with wifi and laptop and kettle for a few days

 

[Dan]

Okay I've made some tweaks to the Google Tags. So that should stop anybody who's subscribing from seeing any? @James - confirmation?

Then esteemed members should only see one or two.

But the sponsors banners are being trialed in a few places. Due to mobiles not showing the sidebar near the content but under it instead which isn't good for them. So we're rotating spots for them within the content. Trialing a few areas.

When COVID hit, Google revenue for us dropped 83% over night. Was similar for Facebook/Instagram and Twitter. All advertising revenue dropped. It's not anywhere near where it should be. So I'm testing a lot. But esteemed members should eventually just see one or two google ads. But see three sponsors ad POSITIONS that rotate between all the sponsors - once I've finished testing.

ALL MEMBERS CAN USE AD - BLOCKERS, that's fine.

Alternatively subscribe and help the forum stay online. We've been juggling bills since March.

Subscribe link is here: https://www.electriciansforums.net/account/upgrades

You should only see sponsors ads when subscribed. Lifetime subscribers see no ads all all inc sponsors.

I need a few people work with me while I'm testing ads out. An Arms members, an Esteemed, and then a normal newish member. Oh and a subscribed one.

Then this week we'll find the Goldilocks Zone where we make some money but don't annoy regulars.

 

[Dan]

I've noticed across multiple devices in the last few days what seems to be an increase in advertising intensity. So much so on the mobile that I had to install a different ad blocker otherwise the forum was basically unusable, the ads completely drowning out the content. If it is a real change and not a result of my browsers being updated etc, then my impression is that it is counterproductive.

@Lucien Nunes
Can you try that now for me mate, I think I've possibly fixed it?
Also, let me know what device you're on (whether mobile or desktop is fine, don't need actual hardware make and model etc - more screen size related than what's viewing the screen)


And @James, can you see what it's like for you now please matey?
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Looks quite calm to me now. Just sponsors banners.

 

[James]

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That’s what I see looking at this thread from my ipad