Online youth charity opts out of Phorm
Leading online charity YouthNet is one of the first UK charities to opt-out of controversial targeted-advertising technology from digital technology company, Phorm, in order to protect the anonymity of its users.
The technology, not yet launched in the UK, allows internet service providers to target customers with tailored adverts by tracking their online behaviour.
YouthNet, which runs a number of websites, including TheSite.org, a confidential information and support service for 16 to 24-year-olds, believes that the technology could discourage young people from accessing information on sensitive issues such as self-harm, drink and drugs or sex and relationships.
Jim Valentine, Communities Manager for YouthNet, says: "With Phorm, other people using a shared computer, say at home or in school or college, could start seeing adverts based on what a young person had viewed on our site.
"At TheSite.org young people are able to openly discuss, and get advice on, issues that are difficult to talk about face to face, so anonymity and confidentiality are essential."
TheSite.org provides advice and guidance to young people through articles, blogs, podcasts and videos, a bespoke question and answer service (askTheSite) and an online per-to-peer community. Every month, over 500,000 unique users visit the website.
YouthNet has also requested that its volunteering website, do-it.org.uk and its soon-to-be launched Lifetracks website, are also excluded from Phorm.
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Media Enquiries:
For further media information or to arrange interviews, please contact Sarah Wilson or Katy Miller at YouthNet on 020 7250 5716 or out-of-hours on 07766 660 755. Email media@YouthNet.org