We’ve heard feedback from clients that it can be difficult and confusing to try to prevent seeing gambling ads on social media, and that ad-blocking software may not work when websites open via the Facebook app, using Facebook’s in-app browser. So, we’ve put together a guide below on how to address these issues.
As Facebook regularly updates their operating systems, these solutions may stop working. If you notice any changes, or if you're seeing gambling ads on other social media platforms, please let us know by emailing comms@pgf.nz
Some time ago, Facebook started building their own web browser into many versions of the Facebook App. The idea was to keep people inside the Facebook system for longer, but the In-App version of the browser has a number of restrictions and does not fully support all the features available in modern stand-alone web browsers. This can affect how many websites work, including this one.
The In-App browser is designed to discourage you from leaving so that Facebook can track what you do on any website link that you open when using the App. This gives them more data about you and your likes and dislikes and a greater chance to feed you adverts from 'relevant partners'; that is, advertisers that pay Facebook for the privilege.
However, the restrictions this imposes mean that, amongst other things, you cannot open links in a new tab or window and you cannot view or open documents such as .pdf, .doc, etc. using the In-App Browser.
Follow these steps on any iOS device to force the Facebook app. to open any links in your preferred external browser (usually Safari).
Unfortunately on an iOS device, you will need to do this each time you click an external link on Facebook.
Follow these steps on any Android device to force the Facebook app. to open any links in your preferred external browser (usually Google Chrome).
Follow the steps below on any iOS device to find and remove different criteria Facebook uses to target the ads you see when using their platform.
Follow the steps below on any Android device to find and remove different criteria Facebook uses to target the ads you see when using their platform.