Starting April 26, 2022, ClickBank will no longer recognize older, non-SSL “http” HopLinks. Instead, all HopLinks must be in the newer, more secure “https” format.
Updating to https is important because, in general, http links can introduce friction to conversion. Customers may see a “not secure” message in their browser bar when passing through an http link, or even encounter a “your connection is not private” page or pop-up.
The HopLink Generator will automatically create new HopLinks for you in the correct https format. Once you have your new links, you’ll need to replace any existing http HopLinks you're using with the updated https version.
These links are not in the same format as http HopLinks, so it’s worth using the generator to make them. If you prefer to type out your HopLinks manually (or customize them with Tracking IDs), you can find the correct https format here.
What is https vs http?
Https stands for “hypertext transfer protocol secure.” This is the more modern and secure version of http, which is the main protocol used to transfer data around the internet. Https links use an encryption protocol called SSL (or TLS) to encrypt and protect all data being communicated.
Using https protects any sensitive data that is being sent between two systems. For ClickBank affiliates and sellers, this means that it adds an additional layer of protection to affiliate, seller, and customer information.
What are the benefits of updating your HopLinks?
You’ve likely encountered an error message or even warning page alerting you that a website you’re trying to access isn’t secure. Some browsers go so far as preventing their users from going to these kinds of sites.
Why? Because sites that aren’t secure may not protect the privacy of their viewers. All sites that are not secure can be monitored, modified, and recorded by your ISP, the government, or other computers sharing the network (for example, coffee shop wifi).
By updating your HopLinks to https links, you reduce the friction for potential customers and stand to see an increase in conversion.
What happens to links that aren’t updated?
After April 26, 2022, http HopLinks will no longer direct customers to a seller’s pitch page and will result in an error message.
How do I know if my links are secure?
The overwhelming majority of affiliates on ClickBank are already using https HopLinks. Secure HopLinks already account for the bulk of ClickBank traffic. If your links begin with https, you are already up to date and no action is required.
If you still use http HopLinks to promote products on ClickBank, please update your links by April 26, 2022.