The global shortage of IPv4 addresses has created a thriving secondary market where prices continue to rise year after year. But as demand increases, so does the number of sellers offering cheap IPv4 addresses, often far below standard market value. At first glance, these low prices can look appealing, especially for startups, hosting companies, VPN platforms, and online businesses trying to expand on a tight budget.

However, not all IPv4 deals are created equal. Cheap IP ranges often come with hidden risks, from compromised reputation to fraudulent sellers. In the IPv4 market, the old saying holds true: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

This guide explains the dangers behind cheap IPv4 blocks, how to recognize red flags, and how to protect your business when buying address space in 2025.

Why Are Cheap IPv4 Addresses So Risky?

The typical price for IPv4 space in 2025 ranges between $40–$60 per IP, depending on block size, region, and reputation. When someone sells IPs far below this range, it usually means corners are being cut or problems are being hidden.

1. High Risk of Blacklisted IP Ranges

Cheap IPv4 blocks often include addresses that have been:

• Flagged for spam
• Associated with malware
• Used in phishing or botnets
• Rejected by email providers
• Blocked by anti-abuse systems

A blacklisted IP range can destroy your ability to:

• Send email
• Run advertising tools
• Host customer applications
• Operate secure services

Cleaning a contaminated block can take weeks or months, and some damage is irreversible.

2. Ownership and Documentation Issues

Many discounted IPv4 deals involve improper records, including:

• Stolen or hijacked IP ranges
• Blocks sold without authorization
• Inconsistent WHOIS records
• Fake Letters of Authorization (LOAs)

Buying from an unverified seller can lead to:

• Transfer rejection by ARIN, RIPE, or APNIC
• Legal disputes
• Loss of funds
• IPs are being reclaimed by the rightful owner

Cheap deals often bypass verification, and that’s where the danger lies.

3. Routing or Geolocation Problems

Some IPv4 ranges are cheap because they come with technical complications:

• Incorrect geolocation data
• Broken routing history
• Previously hijacked routes
• Poor global reachability

For businesses that rely on international traffic, these issues can cause service outages and poor user experience.

4. No Transfer Support or Escrow Protection

Trusted brokers provide:

• Escrow-secured payments
• RIR-compliant transfer handling
• Contract support
• Full documentation verification
• Post-transfer guidance

Most cheap IPv4 sellers offer none of this.

Without escrow, your money is not protected. Without RIR support, your transfer may fail. You may end up paying for addresses you never legally received.

Why Businesses Still Consider Cheap IPv4 Addresses

Despite the risks, some companies look for lower-cost options because:

• IPv4 prices continue to rise.
• Leasing may not fit their long-term needs.
• Large block purchases can be expensive.
• Startups are trying to stay lean.

While the desire to save money is understandable, a bad IPv4 purchase can cost far more in the long run.

How to Evaluate Whether Cheap IPv4 Addresses Are Worth It

Not all lower-priced IPv4 blocks are dangerous. You just need to know what to check.

1. Perform Complete Blacklist Checks

Use tools like IPv4 Hub’s blacklist checker to verify:

• RBL listings
• Spam history
• Abuse complaints
• Malware associations

Even a few bad IPs can affect an entire block.

2. Verify Ownership Through RIR Records

Check the range in:

• ARIN
• RIPE NCC
• APNIC
• LACNIC
• AFRINIC

Confirm:

• Registered owner
• Block status
• Allocation notes
• Routing history

If anything looks inconsistent, walk away.

3. Work Only With Trusted Brokers

A reputable IPv4 broker provides:

• Verified inventory
• Clean reputation checks
• Escrow-backed transactions
• RIR-compliant transfers
• Transparent pricing
• Fraud protection

With a broker, you can still find affordable IP ranges—but without the risks associated with unverified sellers.

4. Compare Prices to Market Averages

If the price is dramatically cheaper than the current market rate, it’s usually a warning sign. Reliable IPv4 is never too cheap, because clean blocks are in high demand.

When Cheap IPv4 Addresses Might Be Acceptable

Lower-priced IPv4 may be worth considering if:

• They are verified clean.
• The seller is a reputable broker.
• The block has no blacklist issues.
• Full transfer support is provided
• Escrow is used for payment.
• You understand the region and routing history

In these cases, a “cheap” block is simply competitively priced—not risky.

Saving Money Shouldn’t Mean Taking Risks

Cheap IPv4 addresses can look attractive, but buying without proper verification can lead to serious operational, financial, and security issues. The safer approach is to work with trusted brokers who provide clean, tested IP ranges at transparent, fair prices.

If your organization needs reliable IPv4 space without unnecessary risk, IPv4 Hub offers:

• Clean, pre-verified IPv4 ranges
• Safe escrow-backed transactions
• ARIN/RIPE/APNIC transfer support
• Transparent pricing
• Expert guidance throughout the process

Affordable doesn’t have to mean dangerous, just make sure you’re buying smart.