Thanks for sharing, Glen.
Due diligence is an essential aspect of any business, including affiliate marketing. Check the legals, those links at the bottom of webpages. Follow them as they go from site to site. Find out the owner/s name/s and Dr Google them. Find their weak points, and their strengths (if any!). Avoid sites that look like ponzi or pyramid schemes.
Above all, maintain a high reputation offline and online.
All good points. I always tell people to read the terms of service and privacy policy. I have seen some nasty surprises that convince me not to join or use the service.