TL;DR

If the client does not use the Anthropic API directly or is not listed as an official integration, assume it is unofficial.

How the scam or confusion works

Many tools claim “Claude access” but actually proxy consumer tokens or spoof official clients. That can break without notice.

Signals to check

  • Uses your own Anthropic API key (not a shared token)
  • Auth flow points to official Anthropic domains
  • The integration is explicitly documented by Anthropic
  • Clear, stable data handling and retention statements

How to verify legitimacy

  • Check the tool’s docs for direct API usage.
  • Look for explicit authorization and listing in official integration docs.
  • Confirm data handling practices align with your policies.

What to do if you already connected

  • Revoke tokens, rotate keys, and move to official access.
  • Document what data was sent through the tool.

What would invalidate this

If Anthropic publishes a formal list of approved third-party clients or a public client verification program, use that as the source of truth.

  • /verify/methodology/
  • /verify/claude-terms/
  • /verify/anthropic-api-terms/
  • /risks/anthropic/third-party-access/
  • /implement/anthropic/compliant-usage/
  • /posts/anthropic-tos-changes-2025/

Sources