Exclusive codes rarely leak by accident: trace the handoffs before blaming affiliates

Exclusive codes rarely leak by accident: trace the handoffs before blaming affiliates

Voucher leakage starts when an exclusive code escapes its intended channel: a partner posts it publicly, a toolbar captures it, a deal page scrapes it, or a customer shares it. The order can still appear attributed, while the commission rewards exposure rather than acquisition.

Audit the path:
• Give each partner a distinct code, landing URL, and tracking ID.
• Record the code’s first approved placement and later sightings.
• Compare code use with click, referrer, device, and assisted-conversion data.
• Flag appearances on coupon pages, extensions, or paid search without approval.

Containment should be specific. Ask for removal, preserve evidence, and identify the source before revoking access. Update partner terms to ban redistribution, scraping, forced clicks, and trademark bidding; define evidence standards and enforcement steps.

A valid code is not proof of valid traffic. Trace the handoff, separate discovery from conversion, and fix the control that allowed the code to travel.