We have an API product that has had a no signup or credit card free tier for a while now.<p>However due to rampant abuse (potentially a small scale DDOS) we're contemplating requiring users to sign up to access the free tier.<p>Does anyone think this is a bad idea that might reduce uptake of our API?
These days, getting an email or other sign-up for something has (at least) two significant factors:<p>* Do I trust you with the data I give you; and<p>* What do I get in return for my data?<p>If you are clear and upfront that the sign-up has been introduced because of lots of bogus accesses, you'll gain some sympathy. But people will still ask both of those questions.<p>If you act in a trustworthy manner, and you provide value in return, then I think it's fine to ask for a sign-up. But you need to gain the user's trust, both that you will treat their data with respect, and that there will be something in return.<p>Exactly how you convince them of those two things is not easy, and effectively "marketing".