How to bypass Lead capture via a Query Parameter

In an effort to streamline access to web resources for certain users or in specific scenarios, universities can implement a straightforward method to bypass authentication or lead capture mechanisms that are usually in place for their webpages. This method involves appending a query parameter to the URL of the page you're trying to access.

What is a Query Parameter?

A query parameter is a way to pass information in the URL, allowing the server to dynamically modify the content or functionality of the webpage based on the parameters provided. In this context, a specific query parameter is used to bypass certain webpage features like authentication gates or lead capture forms.

Bypassing Lead Capture (hide_leads=1)

To bypass the authentication or lead capture, you can add /?hide_leads=1 to the end of the homepage URL. This special query parameter instructs the server to load the webpage without the usual authentication or lead capture mechanisms.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Identify the URL: Start with the base URL of the university's webpage you wish to access. For example, https://demo.vepple.co.uk/
2. Append the Query Parameter: To the base URL, add the query parameter / (if it's not already present) followed by ?hide_leads=1. After appending, your URL should look something like this: https://demo.vepple.co.uk/?hide_leads=1 
3. Access the Page: Enter the modified URL into your browser's address bar and press Enter. The webpage should load without prompting for authentication or displaying a lead capture form.

Examples

Bypassing the lead capture on Vepple's Demo site:

• Original URL: https://demo.vepple.co.uk/
• Modified URL: https://demo.vepple.co.uk/?hide_leads=1

Bookmarking 

The script you need to add as a URL when creating the bookmark is:

 javascript:void((function(){var loc = location.href; loc.indexOf("?%22)%20==%20-1%20?%20(location.href%20=%20loc+%22?hide_leads=1%22)%20:%20(location.href%20=%20loc+%22&hide_leads=1%22);})());

Use Cases

This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where:

• Special Events: During open days, webinars, or other special events, prospective students can be given a hassle-free way to explore resources.
• Marketing and Promotions: Marketing campaigns can direct users to a version of the page without lead capture forms to ensure the main message or content isn't overshadowed.
• Updating your site: If you have made changes in your CMS and would like to review staging the front-end without filling in the authentication fields.

Resetting a Session / Forcing Registration (cs=true)

The Clear Session (cs) parameter is designed to ignore any existing cookies or login data on a user's device. It treats every visitor as a brand-new lead, even if they have visited or signed in previously.

• Primary Function: Ignores existing cookies/local storage to force the Lead Capture modal to appear.
• Persistence: This parameter stays active on page reloads. It is only removed from the URL once the user successfully completes and submits the form.
• Example URL: https://youruniversity.vepple.co.uk/?cs=true

Use Cases for cs=true

• Live Events & Open Days: When running a physical event, you want to ensure you capture the details of everyone who engages on that day. If a student visited your site three months ago, their device might "remember" them and skip the registration form. By distributing a link or QR code containing ?cs=true, you ensure that every attendee is prompted to register fresh for that specific event, maximizing your data collection.
• Testing CMS Changes: If you have updated the fields, logic, or branding of your Lead Capture form in the CMS, you need to see how it looks for a "new" user. Instead of manually clearing your browser cookies or opening multiple "Incognito" windows, simply add ?cs=true to your URL to see the updated form immediately.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Append ?cs=true.

1. Start with your destination URL: https://demo.vepple.co.uk/tours/main-campus
2. Add the parameter:
   • If there is no question mark in the URL, add ?cs=true.
   • If there is already a question mark in the URL, add &cs=true.
3. Final Result: https://demo.vepple.co.uk/tours/main-campus?cs=true