Conversion Cap Tracking vs Blind Trust: Catching Shaved FTDs

Conversion Cap Tracking vs Blind Trust: Catching Shaved FTDs

What it is: Two stances on whether a broker/network is shaving your FTDs (under-reporting deposits). Active cap tracking uses your own tracker counts, test conversions, and CRM cross-checks to audit reported FTDs. Blind trust takes the network dashboard at face value.

Best for active tracking: Any buyer on a new or unrated network, or one with suspiciously round-number caps. Self-collected click and lead data is your only leverage.

Pros (active tracking)
— Your tracker's lead count vs their FTD count exposes gaps
— Test FTDs (a real deposit you control) verify postbacks fire
— Cross-checking CRM 'deposited' status catches silent shaving

Cons (active tracking)
— Test deposits cost real money to run
— Disputes strain the network relationship; proof is hard

Blind trust is fine only with long-rated networks and a track record. New programs with great rates and no reputation are exactly where shaving hides.

Who should skip active tracking: Buyers on a 2-year relationship with consistent, reconcilable numbers. Auditing a proven partner wastes effort. Trust, but spot-check yearly.

Verdict: Track new networks, trust proven ones.