A Study on the Accuracy and Impact of Targeted Advertising in Social Media

This research investigates the accuracy and impact of targeted advertising on social media platforms, focusing on whether these ads truly reflect user interests and how they influence consumer decision-making compared to personal recommendations from friends. The study also explores privacy concerns, trust issues, and ethical implications of data-driven advertising. Using a survey of 60 respondents (primarily aged 18–24), the project analyzes perceptions of ad relevance, frequency, and influence on purchase behavior. Findings reveal that while targeted ads enhance brand discovery and shopping convenience, they also raise significant privacy concerns and skepticism among users. The study concludes that businesses must balance personalization with transparency and ethical practices, ensuring consumer trust while leveraging digital marketing strategies.