See the ads targeting you, right now.
AdCheckMe reveals the ad slots meant for you, who is paying for them, and the signals behind the targeting. Everything stays transparent and ad-friendly.
How it works
We load preview ad placements in a clean, distraction-free layout. Each format tab explains what drives the targeting and how that unit behaves.
When real ad units are enabled, we follow each provider's policies and surface only high-level categories. No personal data is stored by AdCheckMe.
The goal is education, not persuasion. We focus on how formats differ, what kinds of signals influence ad selection, and how users can control personalization at the platform level.
What you get
Ad transparency guide
How ad targeting actually works
Ad targeting combines context and signals. Context includes the topic of the page, language, and layout. Signals include device type, broad location, and aggregated interest categories. AdCheckMe only displays the kinds of information a publisher can observe at a high level.
When an ad request is made, AdSense evaluates the format, page context, and available demand. The system selects an ad creative based on expected performance and policy requirements. This is why two users on the same page can see different ads.
Format matters. A leaderboard is designed for fast visibility, a rectangle is designed for balanced attention, and multiplex units offer multiple choices in a grid. These format differences are a core part of AdCheckMe's education mission.
What we show and what we do not
We show placement types, typical sizes, and the high-level reasons a format is likely to appear. We do not show personal data, individual profiles, or anything that could identify a visitor.
If you decline cookies, the ad slot will not load. If you accept, ad providers may use their standard measurement and personalization processes. You can also use provider dashboards to adjust personalization preferences.
For a deeper explanation of ad auctions, targeting categories, and ad format trade-offs, visit the Learn page.
History of digital ads
How we got from banners to personalized systems
Digital advertising began with simple banner ads in the 1990s, where placements were fixed and targeting was minimal. Early ad buys were similar to print: you paid for a spot on a page and hoped the right people saw it.
As websites scaled, ad servers emerged to manage inventory and measure impressions. This enabled frequency capping, rotation, and more reliable reporting. Soon after, contextual targeting improved relevance by matching ads to page topics instead of just the publisher's brand.
The next leap was programmatic advertising and real-time bidding. Ad exchanges allowed advertisers to bid on individual impressions, bringing auction mechanics to every ad request. This is the foundation for modern ad selection systems like AdSense.
Technology shifts
Identity and measurement evolved alongside browsers and devices. Cookies enabled audience segmentation, while device signals and coarse location data improved matching without relying on exact personal details.
In recent years, privacy regulations and platform changes have reduced reliance on third-party identifiers. This has renewed focus on contextual signals and on-device signals that are aggregated rather than individually identifying.
AdCheckMe exists in this era: it explains how ads are chosen without exposing personal data. For the full timeline and more depth, visit the History page.
About AdCheckMe
AdCheckMe is a transparency project that helps people understand how modern advertising finds them. We organize ad provider information into a single, calm interface so you can see who is paying for an ad and why it appears.
This experience is built for creators, marketers, and everyday users who want clarity on ad targeting. We keep the interface lightweight and avoid collecting personal data.
What to expect
Publisher content first
We keep educational content above the ad demo to comply with AdSense policies about high-value publisher content. Ads appear only after you scroll past this section.
Auto-sized units that adapt to the container and device.
AdSense selects size and creative based on layout and user.
Why this format shows
Format notes
Privacy note
We only surface high-level targeting categories. No personal data is stored, and real ad units will comply with each provider's policy when integrated.
Cookie notice
We use cookies for ad measurement and to personalize the ad experience. You can accept or decline non-essential cookies. Declining may limit personalized ads.