Have you ever wondered how much hidden manipulation goes on beneath the surface of your favorite browser extensions? Well, if you’re using Google Chrome, you might want to pay attention! Google just announced a significant shake-up to its Chrome Web Store policies, specifically aimed at how browser extensions can handle affiliate links. This move comes on the heels of some pretty alarming revelations about the PayPal-owned Honey extension, which allegedly swapped user affiliate links for its own—essentially pocketing commissions that should’ve gone to content creators. Under the new guidelines, extensions must provide clear benefits to users when they include affiliate links, like actual discounts or cashback—because let’s be honest, who wants to be duped into making someone else money without seeing a dime in return? Mark your calendars for June 10th, 2025, because that’s when the rules will kick in, and developers not toeing the line may find their extensions facing the chopping block. So, what does this all mean for the future of affiliate marketing and consumer trust? Let’s dive into the details! LEARN MORE
Google has recently announced a major update to its Chrome Web Store policies, tightening the rules around how browser extensions use affiliate links. This change follows growing concerns over deceptive monetisation practices, particularly after it was revealed that the PayPal-owned Honey extension was allegedly replacing users’ affiliate links with its own.
Under the new policy, Chrome extensions can only include affiliate links if they provide a clear and direct benefit to users, such as discounts or cashback. Extensions will no longer be allowed to insert, modify, or replace affiliate links unless:
