The most common violations in gaming affiliate programs

Success in gaming affiliate marketing depends on following the rules closely and paying attention to feedback from advertisers. Common mistakes like going over the set traffic limits or ignoring advice from advertisers can lead to big problems, such as getting less traffic, facing restrictions, or being banned from advertising platforms. This article focuses on these common errors and offers advice on how publishers can avoid them to keep a good relationship with advertisers.

1. Test Limit Violation

A foundational aspect of most gaming programs is obeying the test limits. These limits are set to allow advertisers to check the quality of traffic a publisher can deliver. Exceeding these limits, even with high-quality traffic, can lead to declined traffic volumes or restrictions on the publisher. It’s crucial to stay within the specified bounds to maintain a positive standing.

2. Ignoring Feedback

Ignoring advertiser feedback is a risky path. Advertisers use reports to optimize traffic and identify issues early. Failing to act on such feedback can result in traffic decline or even a ban from the program. Regular engagement with the advertiser’s reports and instructions is essential for a fruitful partnership.

3. KPI Misalignment

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are vital for assessing traffic quality. Some advertisers openly share the KPIs they monitor, such as retention rates, while others may not. Understanding and aligning with these indicators, whether disclosed or not, is key to meeting advertisers’ expectations.

4. Creative Violations

Creative content is a frequent battleground for violations, ranging from misleading promotions to intellectual property infringement. Publishers must ensure their creatives are lawful, truthful, and aligned with the brand’s image. Unauthorized or inappropriate creatives can lead to legal issues and damage relationships.

5. Postback Configuration Errors

In gaming programs, the correct configuration of postback parameters is non-negotiable. Missteps, such as sending a ClickID in a SubID field, can complicate traffic quality assessments and reporting. Following the advertiser’s guidelines for postback setup is crucial for smooth operations.

6. Utilizing Forbidden Traffic Sources

While experimentation with traffic sources can be tempting, straying into unauthorized channels can be dangerous. If a traffic source is not permitted within the program, using it without explicit approval can jeopardize earnings and program participation. Transparency and adherence to program rules are paramount.

7. Violations of Regional Laws

The legal landscape of advertising varies significantly across regions. Laws like GDPR in Europe or specific advertising regulations in specific countries necessitate a meticulous approach to compliance. Publishers must be diligent in adhering to these laws to avoid penalties and maintain the integrity of their campaigns.

The path to success in gaming affiliate programs is fraught with potential pitfalls. Awareness and adherence to program guidelines, legal compliance, and a proactive approach to feedback and optimization are key to navigating this complex landscape effectively. By understanding and avoiding these common violations, publishers can foster stronger relationships with advertisers, enhance traffic quality, and secure their position within these lucrative programs.