Tracking transparency
What happens when someone clicks a tracked link, in full.
The tracking URL
Transparent tracking links show their next stop in a visible query parameter called redirection_url.
https://track.yourbrand.com/click?redirection_url=https%3A%2F%2Fyourbrand.com%2Foffer
The service always follows that parameter. It does not use a hidden destination stored on the server for these links, and it does not send visitors through other tracking domains.
Links can also include force_transparent=true. The visitor then goes exactly to the visible destination, and nothing else is added.
Short links
Links in the form /c/abc123 redirect to a destination stored by the customer.
Parameters added to the destination
| Parameter | Purpose |
|---|---|
click_id | A random 20-character ID that lets the customer match a visit to its click record. It is not added when force_transparent=true, unless the customer wrote it into the destination. |
| Customer parameters | Names and values the customer chooses, such as sub_id. A value can be fixed, or a random ID created for each click. These appear in the visible destination, or are passed on from the tracking link when force_transparent is not true. |
The service adds nothing else, and it does not change the destination.
What each click records
- Date and time
- IP address, and approximate location looked up from it
- Browser, operating system and device type
- Referring page
- Browser language
- The full tracking URL, including any parameters on it
- Destination URL and the
click_id
The service sets no cookies on visitors who click a link. See our privacy policy for how this data is handled.
Edited tracking URLs
The destination in redirection_url is always followed exactly as written, even if someone edits it. The service never swaps it for another address. When a tracking URL arrives with a destination that differs from the link the customer saved, the visitor still goes to the edited destination, and the click is flagged for review so misuse can be spotted and stopped. Links can be paused at any time.
Reporting a problem
If a link looks misleading or harmful, send us the full link through our contact form. See our acceptable use policy.