A Chrome extension marketed as an Amazon ad blocker was found to be altering affiliate links in users’ browsers. The extension redirected commission earnings to its own accounts without informing users or obtaining their consent. This activity was detected through an investigation into the extension’s background processes.
The unauthorized redirection affected users who clicked on Amazon links while using the extension, diverting potential earnings away from legitimate affiliates. The extension has since been removed from the Chrome Web Store following the discovery.
**Why this matters**
Affiliate commissions help content creators and marketers earn revenue from product referrals. When extensions or other tools hijack these commissions, they undermine trust in affiliate programs and can cause financial harm to legitimate affiliates. Users should be cautious when installing browser extensions and verify their legitimacy to avoid similar risks.
Source: NewsData