This article outlines the latest updates to Awin’s Publisher Terms, Code of Conduct, and related policies, effective 28 August 2025. You can view the latest Publisher Terms and related contractual documents, including the Code of Conduct, on the Publisher Terms page.
Important: From 28 August 2025, the updated Publisher Terms automatically apply to all publishers using the Awin platform or related services. By continuing to use the platform, including signing in, you agree to the updated terms.
Why the terms have been updated
These updates bring the Publisher Terms in line with Awin’s current processes and operational requirements, particularly in relation to suspension, termination and compliance. Routine corrections and clarifications have also been made to improve accuracy and consistency.
Key changes at a glance
Updates to the Publisher Terms
Definition changes:
- Terminology: The term ‘Interface’ is replaced with ‘Platform’.
- Code of Conduct: Definition updated to clarify that the Code of Conduct is part of the Terms.
- Suspension: Definition updated to include programme suspension and the applicability of related measures.
Changes to clauses:
- New Clause 8.3: All payments must be processed exclusively through Awin or a designated third-party payment provider chosen by Awin.
- Clause 14.3.1: Added a definition for ‘material breach’.
- Clause 14.4: Clearer wording on suspension measures.
- Clause 14.4.2: New subsection II covers deceptive activities intended to manipulate tracking, performance data, visitor behaviour or system integrity, or to mislead Awin, advertisers or visitors, for illegitimate or fraudulent gain. These activities are now grounds for suspension and/or termination.
- New Clause 15.2.3: Added permanent closure of the publisher account as a possible termination outcome.
- Clause 15.4 (formerly 15.3): Expanded the wording about clauses that survive termination.
- New Clause 16.1.5: Added to regulate acceptable ways for publishers to submit notices.
Updates to the Code of Conduct
Introductory update
- Updated the wording to emphasise that the Code of Conduct, related policies and other codes are integral parts of the Publisher Terms.
Rule 4: Narrower focus to extensions and similar tools
- Applies only to browser extensions, adware and toolbars, not to all downloadable software.
- Removed the reference to the IAB Code of Conduct and replaced it with Awin’s Soft Click Policy.
- By default, publishers and subnetworks using these technologies are on soft click status unless they meet exemption criteria.
- Extensions must not activate, display overlays or overwrite tracking if another Awin publisher referred the visitor.
- Cashback and coupon reminder features must only activate after clear, explicit user action, never automatically.
- Publishers must inform advertisers in advance of their extension use and upload proof of this communication to the platform.
- Publishers must publicly document how their stand-down logic works so that internal and external audits are possible.
New Soft Click Policy
The policy applies to publishers using browser extensions, adware or toolbars. It promotes transparency, reduces risk and ensures fair tracking.
- Default status: Publishers using these technologies are on soft click status. They earn commission only if:
- They are the sole click in the conversion path, or
- They are the final touchpoint in a journey involving only other soft click publishers or post-view campaigns.
- Exemptions: Awin may grant exemptions in specific cases, such as cashback or loyalty models.
- Subnetworks: Must maintain two separate accounts: one for standard tracking and one for soft click tracking, and assign sub-publishers correctly.
- Routing rules: Any publisher routing extension traffic through a standard tracking account without prior approval will be placed on soft click status immediately.
- Monitoring: Awin may enforce this policy through technical monitoring.
Updates to the Subnetwork Code of Conduct
- Replaced the ‘Violations and Sanctions’ section with a clearer, more structured and progressive approach.
- Added new violations: ‘Refusal to communicate’ and ‘Sub-subnetworking’, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
- The immediate first step for non-compliance is network-wide soft click status for the subnetwork and all associated sub-publishers.
- Escalated sanctions may include non-payment status, suspension or full termination if the issue is not resolved.
- Continuous monitoring of compliance applies.
- There is now a clear process to remove soft click status once compliance is proven.
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