CivitAI Introduces Cryptocurrency Payments Following Credit Card Restrictions

CivitAI, the leading repository for generative artificial intelligence (AI) models, has now enabled cryptocurrency payments for purchasing its virtual token, "Buzz." This move ensures users can continue transactions despite recent credit card restrictions.

On October 23, CivitAI integrated cryptocurrency payment solutions in response to the discontinuation of its credit card services due to adult content (NSFW) policy limitations. Industry reports from October 26 highlighted this strategic shift aimed at maintaining service accessibility through digital assets.

CivitAI partnered with NowPayments, a crypto payment processor, and now accepts cryptocurrencies including USDC (USD Coin), Tether (USDT), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), TRON (TRX), Solana (SOL), and Dogecoin (DOGE). Notably, Bitcoin (BTC) was excluded owing to its high transaction fees.

Emphasizing the transition, CivitAI stated, "We've adopted cryptocurrency payments to provide a simple and secure method for purchasing Buzz tokens." The company particularly recommended using USDC on the Base network for its gas-free fast transactions.

This shift follows CivitAI's contract termination with its previous payment providers because of NSFW content regulatory issues. The company explained, "Despite managing our content and adhering to legal standards, some payment firms still categorize generative AI platforms as high-risk. Our content policy revisions were insufficient to satisfy our former providers."

User reactions to the cryptocurrency payment integration have been mixed. While some users welcomed the new options, others began exploring alternative platforms.