Cookie stuffing

Cookie stuffing refers to the illicit practice of dropping multiple affiliate tracking cookies onto a user's computer without their consent, typically to earn fraudulent commissions.

Example: In a scenario involving a partnership between a B2B software provider and various marketing affiliates, an affiliate could engage in cookie stuffing by embedding invisible images or scripts on their website that automatically triggers the download of the B2B provider’s cookie onto every visitor's computer. This means that if any of these visitors later sign up for the software service, the affiliate would receive a commission, regardless of whether their marketing efforts genuinely influenced the purchasing decision.

• Cookie stuffing can undermine trust in marketing partnerships by rewarding unethical affiliates over those driving genuine business.
• It can distort marketing and sales analytics, leading to incorrect strategic decisions due to inflated or misleading affiliate performance data.
• Businesses may face legal and reputational risks if associated with fraudulent marketing practices.

Understanding cookie stuffing helps businesses safeguard their affiliate programs, ensuring commissions are paid for legitimate referrals, thereby maintaining the integrity of their marketing efforts and partnerships.