Accusations of Honey Extension Ripping Off Customers and YouTubers

The PayPal Honey browser extension has been a popular tool for finding better deals while shopping online. However, recent claims suggest that the extension may not be as beneficial as it seems. YouTuber MegaLag has accused Honey of engaging in questionable practices, including allegedly stealing money from influencers who promote the product.

Honey’s Controversy

Honey operates by offering to find coupon codes for users during the online checkout process. However, according to MegaLag, the extension often fails to deliver relevant codes or provides its own branded ones, even if better options are available through a simple internet search. Despite Honey’s claim of finding every working promo code on the internet, MegaLag suggests that the extension prioritizes its partnerships with retail clients over offering the best deals to users.

Affiliate Revenue Concerns

MegaLag also alleges that Honey manipulates affiliate revenue by replacing influencer tracking links with its own when users interact with the deal pop-up at checkout. This practice, according to MegaLag, results in Honey receiving credit for the sale, even if the influencer’s link initially led the user to the purchase.

Response from PayPal

In response to these allegations, PayPal’s VP of corporate communications, Josh Criscoe, stated that Honey adheres to industry rules and practices, including last-click attribution.

Public Backlash

These accusations against Honey are not new, as evidenced by a 2021 Twitter post advising users to use the extension’s discount codes in a different browser to avoid losing affiliate credit. Additionally, a Linus Media Group employee revealed in a 2022 forum reply that Linus Tech Tips ended its sponsorship with Honey due to its affiliate link practices.

Reevaluation of Honey

Despite its widespread recommendation and use, with thousands of sponsored videos across various YouTube channels, the controversy surrounding Honey has prompted a reevaluation of its reliability and credibility. Previously endorsed by The Verge, Honey’s reputation has now come under scrutiny.

Statement from Criscoe

In a full statement, Criscoe emphasized that Honey is a free tool that aims to provide shoppers with additional savings on their purchases. He highlighted Honey’s role in helping merchants reduce cart abandonment and increase sales conversion rates.

Conclusion

The allegations against Honey raise concerns about its practices and impact on influencers and users. As the controversy unfolds, it is essential for consumers to be aware of the potential implications of using the extension and to make informed decisions when seeking deals online.

FAQs

Q: Should I continue using the Honey browser extension?

A: Given the recent allegations, users may want to reconsider using Honey and explore alternative options for finding deals online.

Q: Is Honey’s affiliate revenue model ethical?

A: The controversy surrounding Honey’s affiliate practices raises questions about the ethicality of its revenue model and the impact on influencers and content creators.

Credit: www.theverge.com