Seeking Help Suspicious Affiliate Behavior – Seeking Advice on Ad Hijacking Cases

[domavaic]

We've recently dealt with an affiliate who claimed to promote only via newsletters but showed unusually high conversion rates. Upon closer inspection, traffic referrers showed "google" instead of typical email sources. After we reached out with questions, the partner stopped responding.

There's a high chance they're running ad hijacking. Curious to hear how you identify these cases and gather solid evidence to take action. Any tips?

 

[Graybeard]

I’m guessing you're trying to reserve all trademark traffic (e.g., Google Ads on your brand terms) for your in-house team or approved channels. That’s valid—but you should clearly state that in your affiliate onboarding docs, with forfeiture and termination as consequences for violation.

That said, banning all SEM brand bidding across the board might not be the most strategic move.

Smart affiliates can actually boost brand visibility and conversions if SEM is temporarily permitted under defined terms. Instead of a blanket ban, consider allowing SEM on a short-term or provisional basis ***just ensure there's clear policy language and advance notice before revoking permission.*** That way, you maintain control and benefit from expanded reach.