I usually use AdNauseam in the 'active' mode, which blocks ads in addition to clicking on them. Recently, I've been having to switch to the 'strict' mode more often, which is more aggressive in blocking, but we lose out on the clicking.

I'm guessing this has something to do with maintaining profits while the price of oil skyrockets. Is it just me being paranoid, or are others noticing this as well?

It's a damn shame websites have to lose out on more ad revenue by being greedy pieces of shit, but they reap what they sow.