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Are there restrictions on where Amazon affiliate links can be used?
Yes, there are several restrictions on where and how Amazon affiliate links can be used, as outlined in Amazon’s Affiliate Program Policies. These rules are designed to ensure that affiliate links are used appropriately, transparently, and in compliance with legal and platform-specific requirements. Here’s an overview of the main restrictions:
1. Prohibited Platforms for Amazon Affiliate Links
- Email (Unsolicited): You cannot send Amazon affiliate links through unsolicited emails (commonly known as spam). However, you can send Amazon affiliate links through opt-in email lists (i.e., emails to people who have willingly subscribed to receive content from you), as long as you follow the disclosure requirements.
- Offline Promotions: Amazon affiliate links cannot be used in offline promotions, such as physical advertisements, printed material, or in-person events.
- Social Media Restrictions: Although Amazon allows affiliate links on social media, they must follow both Amazon’s affiliate program policies and the specific social media platform rules. For instance:
- Instagram/Facebook: You can share affiliate links in your bio, posts, or stories, but Instagram’s link-sharing policy (for non-verified accounts) restricts links to the bio and specific stories with “swipe-up” features.
- TikTok: Affiliate links can be shared in the bio, but clickable links in videos are not allowed directly on TikTok.
- YouTube: Amazon affiliate links can be shared in video descriptions and comments, but not in video content unless you’re using specific YouTube features like cards or end screens.
2. Restricted Use in Search Engines
- Search Engine Ads: Amazon prohibits the use of Amazon affiliate links in paid search engine ads (such as Google AdWords or Bing Ads). You cannot bid on keywords or place ads that direct traffic to Amazon with the intent of earning affiliate commissions. This includes using affiliate links in PPC campaigns or search engine advertising.
- Direct Linking in Search Ads: You cannot bid on branded terms (like “Amazon” or “Amazon Prime”) or use Amazon affiliate links in search engine ads (paid ads).
3. No Affiliate Links on Certain Sites
- Prohibited Content Sites: Amazon prohibits affiliate links on websites that have illegal, immoral, or unethical content, such as sites promoting hate speech, pornography, violence, or illegal activities.
- No “Cookie Stuffing” or Fraudulent Practices: You cannot use techniques such as cookie stuffing (tracking users’ activity without their consent) or other fraudulent tactics to earn commissions. Amazon requires affiliates to honestly and transparently market products and to disclose their affiliate relationships.
- Linking to Amazon From Paid Links: You cannot have paid ads or links that redirect directly to Amazon. For example, affiliate links can’t be used on a clickbait-style website or paid-for ad that directs visitors to Amazon without prior approval from Amazon’s program.
4. Restrictions on Use in Certain Software and Apps
- No Use in Software/Apps: Amazon affiliate links cannot be used in any software or mobile apps unless you have received explicit permission from Amazon. This includes using affiliate links in browser extensions, third-party software, or any apps that display or distribute links without user consent.
5. Prohibited Methods for Link Placement
- No Direct Linking Through Pop-Ups or Overlays: Amazon affiliate links cannot be used in pop-ups, pop-unders, or hover ads that obscure the user experience or prevent the user from easily navigating the page.
- No Shortened or Cloaked Links: Amazon prohibits the use of link cloaking (i.e., hiding your affiliate tracking ID or making links look different from the original). Affiliate links should not be disguised or hidden in a way that prevents transparency. You can use Amazon’s built-in link-shortening tools (e.g., SiteStripe), but custom link shorteners are discouraged.
6. Content Restrictions
- Content-Specific Restrictions: Amazon has guidelines about how affiliate links can be used in content types such as:
- Product Reviews: You must provide honest reviews based on your experience with the products and not mislead viewers about the products you are promoting.
- Redirecting Users: You are not allowed to redirect users to third-party websites or ask them to buy the products off Amazon to receive commissions.
7. No Manipulating or Misleading Users
- Misleading Link Placement: You cannot place Amazon affiliate links in a manner that could deceive users. For example, you cannot:
- Lead users to believe that clicking an Amazon link will provide them with a non-Amazon offer.
- Mislead users into thinking they are buying a product from a site other than Amazon.
8. Mobile App Usage
- Restrictions on Mobile App Links: Affiliate links are not allowed to be used directly in mobile apps unless you have received explicit permission from Amazon. This includes apps that promote Amazon products or use affiliate links to generate commissions from in-app purchases.
Summary of Amazon Affiliate Link Restrictions:
- Can’t use Amazon affiliate links in unsolicited emails, paid ads, or offline promotions.
- Can’t use affiliate links on certain platforms like mobile apps or software without explicit permission.
- Prohibited from using Amazon affiliate links in deceptive ways, such as cloaking or misleading users.
- Must disclose affiliate relationships clearly to users (FTC and Amazon guidelines).
- Cannot bid on branded terms or use affiliate links in paid search engine advertising.
By adhering to these rules, you ensure that you remain in good standing with Amazon’s affiliate program while protecting both your audience and your own affiliate income.
