Why We Use Credits & How to Earn Them

Credits serve two purposes:

1. **Incentivize contribution** — the more you give to the community, the more you get back. Submitting sites, earning badges and reaching new levels all award credits.

2. **Protect sensitive information** — by requiring credits to unlock site details, we ensure that only engaged, contributing members have access to coordinates and access routes. This prevents casual scraping and protects the places we share.

Credits are first and foremost a **community currency** that rewards participation and protects knowledge. Contributing is the main way to earn — buying credits (on the Pricing page) is simply a convenience for members who'd rather support the network than contribute.

- **Submit a new site** — earn **up to 3 credits** per approved submission (base + completeness + photo bonuses)

- **Earn badges & reach new levels** — badges and level-ups award automatic credit bonuses

- **Invite a trusted member** — earn **2 credits** + the Recruiter badge when your invitee's first submission is approved

- **Buy credits** — purchase credits on the **Pricing** page whenever you need more

Every new member also starts with **3 bonus credits**. See the **How to Get Credits** guide for the complete breakdown of earning and buying.

- **Site details** — full descriptions, access info, coordinates, and photos

- **Future features** — as the platform grows, credits may unlock additional capabilities

Credits are consumed when you unlock a site. Once unlocked, the site remains accessible to you permanently.