What is an API key?

An API key is a long password made for a system, not a person. An API is a way for two systems to pass information to each other, and the key is what lets one of them in. If the word API is new to you, read What is an API? first.

Why would a system need a password?

Eventbrite only hands over your events to someone you have allowed. A person proves that by signing in. A system cannot type into a sign-in page, so Eventbrite gives your account a key instead. Whoever holds the key can ask Eventbrite about your account without signing in as you.

What does one look like?

A long string of letters and numbers, much longer than a normal password. Nobody is expected to remember it. You copy it and paste it.

Do I have to share one?

No. A key is one of two ways to give the integration team access, and it is not the one we prefer. Adding us to your Eventbrite team needs no key at all. The page What we need from you compares the two.

How should I treat a key?

Like a password. Paste it only into your chapter portal. Never send it by email or in a chat message, not even to us. The page Share an API key shows where to find it and where it goes.