How I block all online ads

Summary

The author details methods for blocking online ads, including browser extensions, DNS filtering, and VPN usage. They share their personal experience and provide specific tools and configurations.

Key Takeaways

1. Browser ad blockers, like uBlock Origin, are effective for general ad blocking, especially on browsers other than Chromium-based ones.
2. DNS filtering, using tools like Pi-hole, complements browser extensions by blocking ads in mobile apps.
3. Routing traffic through a VPN via a cloud provider can reduce ads by making the user appear as a potential source of ad fraud.

Statement Breakdown

• Claimed Facts: 60% of statements the article presents as facts
• Opinions: 30% of statements classified as editorial or subjective
• Claims: 10% of statements surfaced for additional reader evaluation

Credibility & Bias Reasoning

Credibility assessment: The article provides a detailed, personal account of ad-blocking techniques, which enhances its credibility. The author shares specific tools and methods they've used, offering practical advice. However, the lack of external validation or data to support some claims slightly lowers the overall credibility.

Bias assessment: Pro-Privacy/Anti-Advertising. The article is written from the perspective of someone who strongly dislikes online advertising and is motivated to eliminate it entirely. The author advocates for various methods to block ads, reflecting a clear bias against the advertising industry and a preference for user privacy. This perspective shapes the selection and presentation of information.

Note: This article presents personal experiences and technical advice. Verify claims and consider security implications before implementation.

Credibility flag: Practical Tips

Claimed Facts (6)

• This is presented as a factual statement based on the author's experience.
• This is a general statement about how mobile ads are served.
• This is a statement about the popularity of specific software.
• This is a factual statement about the author's setup and alternative options.
• This is a suggestion based on the author's understanding of iOS functionality.
• This is a quantitative claim about the effectiveness of ad-blocking methods.

Opinions (6)

• This is a personal feeling and preference.
• This is a subjective assessment of the impact of ad blockers.
• This expresses a negative opinion about Google's Manifest V3.
• This is an interpretation of the motivations of online platforms.
• This is a statement of personal acceptance of certain inconveniences.
• This is a subjective assessment of the risks and benefits of patching apps.

Claims (4)

• This is an exaggeration using emotional language.
• This is a hypothetical scenario presented without evidence.
• This is a claim of widespread abuse without specific evidence.
• This is a claim about the behavior of online platforms without verifiable data.

Key Sources

• Author — Troubled Engineer
• DigitalOcean — Cloud Provider