Affiliate websites are a major part of how people buy online in India today. But what actually is an affiliate site, how does it earn money, and what should you watch out for? This guide explains it in plain English.
What is an affiliate website?
An affiliate website helps you find products. When you click "Buy Now" on the site, you're sent to a retailer like Amazon or Flipkart. If you buy something, the affiliate site earns a small commission from the retailer. You pay no extra money — the price you see on Amazon is the same price whether you arrive direct or via an affiliate.
How does the affiliate get paid?
Each major retailer runs a partner program — Amazon Associates, Flipkart Affiliate, Cuelinks, Admitad, etc. Affiliates apply, get approved, and receive a unique tracking link for each product. When a purchase happens via that link, the retailer pays out (usually 1–8%) from their own margin.
Are affiliate websites safe to use?
Reputable ones — yes. Look for these signals:
- HTTPS in the address bar
- A clear affiliate disclosure (usually in the footer or at the top of articles)
- A real privacy policy and terms page
- "Buy Now" buttons that link to the actual retailer (not a sketchy intermediate page)
- Real editorial content — comparisons, reviews, guides — not just product grids
What to avoid
- Sites that ask for your card details to "save" them — legitimate affiliate sites never handle payments.
- Sites with broken English, fake testimonials and 90% off "deals" on luxury items — usually scams.
- Pop-ups that auto-redirect you without clicking.
Why use Aviato
We're transparent about every commission, link to genuine retailers only, and our editorial methodology is published so you can verify our process. Learn more about us or read our affiliate disclosure.