Most affiliate sales are tracked using standard post-click cookies, also known as hard click cookies. These track the last publisher the customer clicks before converting and usually remain active for several days.
Soft click cookies work differently. When a customer clicks a soft cookie link, it does not overwrite any existing tracking cookies already set in the customer’s browser.
A publisher using a soft click cookie will only receive commission if no other publisher influenced the customer’s journey. These cookies also expire more quickly, often at the end of the same browsing session.
Why soft click cookies are used
Using soft click cookies is an appropriate measure when certain types of publisher activity are more likely to overwrite other publishers’ tracking unfairly. Setting these publishers to soft click protects attribution for others while still allowing participation.
Common use cases include:
Conversion overlays: Pop-ups or tools that appear on the advertiser’s site to encourage the customer to complete a purchase. Because the customer has likely already arrived through another publisher’s link, the soft cookie ensures the overlay does not take credit for the sale.
Browser extensions and toolbars: These tools activate in the browser and remind customers about cashback, discount codes or other incentives. They often appear just before the customer completes their purchase. Using a soft click cookie prevents them from replacing the original publisher’s tracking.
Display and retargeting ads: These ads reach customers who have already visited the advertiser’s website. Soft click tracking helps ensure the publisher who originally referred the customer still receives credit.
Benefits of soft click cookies
For publishers: Although soft click tracking may result in fewer commissions, it allows publishers to work with advertisers that might otherwise avoid their business model. If you generate commission with a soft click cookie, you’re the only publisher influencing the customer’s journey – this demonstrates your value to the advertiser, strengthening your partnership.
For advertisers: Soft click cookies make it possible to test new partners and technologies without disrupting attribution for existing publishers. This helps advertisers protect partner relationships while expanding their partnerships.
To learn more about cookies, see Cookie Tracking – Publisher FAQs.
