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I just uninstalled the CNN app for Android, and here's why. I clicked on the link to a news article. But before the article, it played an 8 second ad video, with sound. I tried to stop it, but there were no menu controls. I couldn't even change my mind and go back.
As an advertising tactic, this isn't just a poorly executed plan. It's immoral.
Software developers, listen: there is no circumstance under which you're justified in taking away the user's ability to control their device.
If your employer asks you to disable the user controls, you have a moral obligation to refuse.
If necessary, quit before you're fired.
Don't disable the user's ability to control their own phone, tablet, or computer.
Advertisers: the message to you is that you should never abuse your potential customers’ goodwill. Show them you respect their ability to decide what to watch, what to read, what to do with their valuable time.
Content providers: create rules for your advertisers. You wouldn’t take over your viewer’s device, so don’t allow your advertisers to do it through their links.