Defining a valid lead

[kunwarbs]

I am about to launch affiliate program one of my client for lead generation. Not sure how shall I define a valid lead?

[eljefe3]

Generally it means that all the fields are filled out in the form and the data isn't fraudulent.

[vincevincevince]

"Isn't fraudulent" is a key term. Don't define things precisely. On your side, you need a number of checks, but don't publicise these or it's an invitation to people to try to bypass them.

IP address checks (more than one lead from one IP makes them both fraudulent)

Browser signature checks (numerous leads from browsers with the same exact user agent for the same affiliate)

IP address matches a known proxy server

Almost all 'leads' have free email accounts (yahoo, hotmail, gmail)

Telephone numbers do not match addresses (easiest to check in the US by typing the number into Google)

Confirmation email bounces

[jomaxx]

I usually recommend modeling the best practices of other companies -- otherwise known as "copying". Look up the TOS of a few other major lead affiliates, and I imagine they'll have thought of pretty much everything.

Obviously, as per the previous post, I would expect fraud detection to be a pretty big concern if you're paying for something as simple as a form being filled out.

[davewray]

Valid lead?

1. Must be opted in, not spam generated
2. Must be a "real" person, not "Mickey Mouse"
3. Real phone number.
4. Generated via the web?

As an affiliate it really irks me when merchants reject a lead based on the fact they could not reach them at the number provided. The number is valid, how is it my problem you couldn't get through to them? It then becomes a pay per sale program and not pay per lead...