Sat Dec 28 07:30:00 UTC 2024: ## YouTube Creator Accuses PayPal’s Honey of Influencer Scam, Misleading Ads
**New York, NY** – A New Zealand YouTube creator, Jonathon MegaLag, has leveled serious accusations against PayPal’s Honey browser extension, alleging fraudulent behavior and deceptive marketing practices in a viral video that has garnered over 9.4 million views. MegaLag’s three-part exposé claims Honey is hijacking affiliate links, offering limited coupon options, and running misleading advertisements.
MegaLag’s video details how Honey’s last-click attribution model, while an industry standard, allegedly allows it to steal commissions from influencers by capturing the final click before purchase, even when users initially arrived via an affiliate link. He provided a stark example, earning $35 through his affiliate link for a NordVPN purchase, compared to just 89 cents in PayPal Rewards cashback using Honey.
PayPal responded to the accusations, stating Honey is a free tool that helps shoppers save money and follows industry rules. Chief Corporate Affairs and Communications Officer Amy Bonitatibus emphasized that merchants control the coupons offered through Honey, and that Honey employs last-click attribution, an accepted industry practice.
However, MegaLag’s claims have resonated with other creators. Markiplier, a popular YouTuber, resurfaced a 2020 Twitch stream clip expressing his distrust of Honey, and commented “I KNEW IT!!!” on the recent allegations. Hank Green, another prominent creator, released a video supporting MegaLag’s concerns, highlighting the vulnerability of small creators in the affiliate marketing ecosystem.
MegaLag also criticizes Honey for its limited coupon offerings and misleading advertising. While PayPal maintains that Honey’s coupons are sourced from various avenues, a past investigation by the National Advertising Division into Honey’s claims of finding “every working code” resulted in the company discontinuing the offending advertisement.
The controversy throws a spotlight on the complexities of affiliate marketing and the potential for exploitation within the influencer and e-commerce industries. Experts are now being sought to provide further context on industry best practices and to determine the validity of MegaLag’s accusations. The investigation continues.
First Piper 