How to buy AI API access safely

Buying access to an AI API? These checks help you avoid scams and get access that works.

Types of API access sold

• Prepaid API credits, where the seller has credit with a provider such as OpenAI or Anthropic
• Custom API endpoints, where the seller hosts a model and sells access to it
• Reseller accounts offering bulk access at discounted rates
• API wrappers, which add features on top of an existing API

Red flags

• The API key has been shared publicly. It will be revoked.
• The seller can't show the API working live.
• There's no documentation of rate limits or usage.
• The price is far below the provider's own rates, which usually means stolen or fraudulent access.
• The seller asks for your existing API key "to test". Never share it.

Safe buying process on EPICSWP

1. Read the listing. Check which API is being sold, its rate limits and when access expires.
2. Pay through escrow. Your payment is held.
3. Test the API by making real calls.
4. Check the remaining credit or rate limits.
5. Confirm receipt only once the API works as described.

Important notes

• Many AI providers, including OpenAI and Anthropic, forbid reselling API access in their terms. Read them before you buy.
• A provider may revoke a key if it detects sharing.
• Change any credentials you can after the purchase.
• Keep everything in the deal chat. It's the record a moderator reviews if there's a dispute.

Escrow holds your money while you test, so if the key doesn't work, don't confirm. Open a dispute instead.