If you’ve ever woken up, checked your affiliate dashboard, and thought: “Where the heck did my commissions go?!” — friend, you’re not alone.
Today, we’re getting real about a sneaky little affiliate marketing scam that’s flying under the radar for way too many affiliate marketers, especially women over 50 who are building businesses from home like us.
It’s called “cookie-stuffing“.
And trust me, it’s as shady as it sounds.
So, What Is Cookie Stuffing?
Let me break it down, Carla-style.
You do all the work:
✅ Build the trust
✅ Share the value
✅ Drop your affiliate link
✅ Send your audience to the product you know will help them
And just when you think you're about to earn that well-deserved commission…
🚨 BAM! A sneaky browser extension like PayPal Honey, Capital One Shopping, or others swoops in and overwrites your link at checkout.
That little trick? It’s called cookie-stuffing.
Instead of you getting paid, they claim the sale. Rude, right?
It’s like setting up a bake sale and someone walking by, slapping their name on your pie, and pocketing the cash. Not today, my friend. Not today.
Why Should You Care?
Because it’s happening more often than you think.
And let’s be honest, when you’re building your business from home, every single commission counts.
This isn’t about pennies. This is about protecting your income, your effort, and your future.
If you’re a woman over 50 (like me) who’s decided you’re not done yet, this matters even more. You’ve already been through the ups and downs of life and business. You deserve to get paid for your work. Period.
How to Protect Yourself from Cookie Stuffing
Now, you know me … I’m not just here to rant. (Okay, maybe a little.) But I’m also here to give you solutions. Here’s what you can do:
✅ Watch Your Links Like a Hawk
Track them, check your clicks, and if things look fishy, they probably are.
✅ Warn Your Audience
Let them know that using coupon extensions could cancel your commissions. A simple heads-up goes a long way!
✅ Diversify Your Strategy
Email list, social media, Pinterest—spread your traffic around so you’re not relying on one method. Own your audience!
Bottom line? Knowledge is power, and awareness is your first line of defense.
Listen, I’ve been burned more times than I can count. But here’s the thing: every time I’ve felt like quitting, I’ve found a smarter way to fight back.
This is one of those moments.
Affiliate marketing can work. It does work. But only if you’re informed and proactive about protecting your hard-earned commissions.
And if you’re tired of the stress and the scams, I’ve got your back.
👉 Grab my free guide: Simple Marketing Tools for The Everyday Entrepreneur
It’s packed with no-fluff strategies to help you grow your business smartly (and keep more of your commissions where they belong, with you.)
Because at the end of the day? We’re not here to work for free.
We’re here to build something unstoppable.
"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."