Honey, the browser extension promising effortless savings with automatic discount codes, has been a favorite among online shoppers since its inception in 2012. With endorsements from influencers and a $4 billion acquisition by PayPal in 2020, Honey has grown into a household name. However, a recent investigation by YouTuber MegaLag reveals that the extension may not be living up to its promise—and might even be costing consumers money.
The Hidden Costs Of The Honey “Free” Extension
The concept of Honey is simple: it scans the web for discount codes and applies the best one at checkout. But MegaLag’s findings suggest otherwise. Honey has partnered with businesses to promote specific discounts, often ignoring better codes available online. For instance, if a “HONEY10” code offers 10% off but a higher discount exists, Honey might still push its partner’s code, leaving users with lesser savings.
Beyond misleading consumers, Honey’s practices also impact influencers and affiliate marketers. Many influencers promote products using affiliate links, earning a small commission for driving sales. According to MegaLag, Honey can intercept these links, attributing the sale to itself instead of the original source. This not only undermines the influencers’ efforts but also raises ethical concerns about transparency in digital marketing.
The investigation shines a light on the broader implications of Honey’s business model. While it started as a tool to empower consumers, its partnerships with businesses and questionable tactics suggest a shift in priorities. For shoppers, this means relying solely on Honey could lead to missed savings. The lesson? A little extra effort to find discount codes yourself might still be the best way to secure a deal.
As more scrutiny falls on Honey, its promise of being a “free” tool for savings becomes increasingly questionable. While it may offer convenience, users should weigh that against the potential hidden costs and consider whether the extension truly serves their best interests.
