Ad‑targeting is a textbook example of data engineering meeting psychology. The algorithm pulls every click, scroll, and purchase into a matrix, then uses Bayesian models and deep learning to predict what a user is likely to value next. The line between influence and manipulation blurs when the system starts nudging you toward items you never considered, simply because it calculates a higher click‑through or conversion probability. From a purely efficient standpoint, it’s brilliant—you get what you’re most likely to buy. From a consumer‑rights angle, it feels intrusive, especially when the recommendation engine hides the fact that it’s prioritizing profit over genuine need. If you want to keep control, scrub your cookie data, use privacy‑first browsers, and read the fine print on every ad’s targeting criteria. Anything else is just a slick dance that the tech giant choreographs.