The Honey browser extension, owned by PayPal, has recently been exposed as one of the most dangerous and deceptive scams of all time. This multi-year investigation revealed that Honey, which promises to find the best online coupon codes for users, has been engaging in some seriously shady practices.
What is the Honey Scam?
Honey is a popular browser extension designed to automatically apply discount codes at checkout, saving users money on their online purchases. However, a comprehensive investigation by MegaLag uncovered that Honey has been deleting affiliate link cookies from influencers when users click through to products from their videos and other sites. This means that influencers are not paid for the referral, and Honey pockets the commission instead.
How Does Honey Work?
When users install Honey, it scans the web for applicable coupon codes and applies the best one to the user’s cart. However, tests have shown that Honey often fails to find the best codes and sometimes hides better discounts from users. This is allegedly done through deals with retailers, giving them control over the discount codes that shoppers can access.
Impact on Influencers and Users
The scam has had a significant impact on influencers and users alike. Influencers like MrBeast and Marques Brownlee, who have promoted Honey to their audiences, have unknowingly been directing their followers to a tool that steals their affiliate revenue. Users, on the other hand, are misled into believing they are getting the best deals, while in reality, they are often missing out on better discounts available elsewhere.
Response from PayPal and Honey
PayPal has yet to comment on the practice of limiting access to coupon codes, but Honey’s spokesperson, Josh Criscoe, stated that the extension follows industry rules and practices, including last-click attribution. This means that Honey claims all commission credit for a purchase if it is the final touchpoint in the buyer’s journey.
The Honey scam has raised serious concerns about user privacy, data security, and ethical business practices. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how PayPal and Honey will address these issues and regain the trust of their users and influencers.