The surfer is actually just copying the portion of your link that does not include your affiliate link and entering into the website using this revised link. Some people are just plain strange I think. Here are a few great ways for you to cloak your links so that you will receive the commissions that you deserve.

1. Downloading a program online that is freeware that will allow you to cloak your links:-

There are numerous programs online that you can find easily that will cloak your affiliate links for you. The easiest way to find such a program is to do a quick search online within a major search engine.

You do have to be careful when you're using any freeware program since some of them have adware embedded into their source code.

2. Using a website that is designed to shorten your URLs:-

There are many websites online nowadays that will allow you to set up accounts for free that will provide you with the ability to shorten your affiliate links.

Nevertheless, since so many people are using these types of affiliate cloaking websites, it makes it easy for someone to determine that you're trying to hide an affiliate link from them. Just ensure that if you take this route, that you select a cloaking website that is not well-known presently.

I actually use a great service that is included for free with my affiliate marketing membership for cloaking my affiliate links online. This freely included service is great since it provides me with lots of statistical data with respect to my click thrus: membership site with cloaking service.

Also, I recommend that you see what I am receiving with my affiliate marketing membership: http://wealthy-affiliate-program.info