That's correct. I think this is how most people see advertising.

For me it depends on the advertising. A brand that sells say bags? It’s fine, I love a cool bag.

And then there is the “Play this one stupid game that has everyone hooked!!!” With an unrelated picture. Or “This guy became a millionaire in ONE day!1!” type of advertising.

Advertising works extremely well precisely because most people are aware that many brands with something of value are also willing to pay for ads. Look at Apple.

I would bet a small majority of people believe advertising "doesn't work" on them.

People literally pay in order to escape advertising.

Of course advertising is not worth it for the target. It's harmful more often than not.

Jimmy James on Advertising (from the 90's sitcom NewsRadio) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhrnMbhMgmw

As it should. Why, did you think ads were valuable information?