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API - Search People - Response Codes & Troubleshooting

Updated over 2 weeks ago

When using the Surfe People Search API, you may see different response codes depending on how the request is handled. Here’s a quick guide to what each code means and what to do next.


Search People

Endpoint: GET v2/people/search


A successful request is accompanied by a 20X status code that confirms the operation was completed as expected.

200 – Successful

  • What it means: The request worked, and the people you're searching for have been found.

  • Next steps: You're good to go! Use the results as needed.


In case of errors, the API responds with 4XX or 5XX status codes:

400 – Invalid Request

  • What it means: Something is wrong with the way the request was sent.

  • Next steps: Double-check the request format. Make sure all required fields are filled out correctly. If you're unsure, refer to the API documentation.


401 – Unauthorized

  • What it means: Your API key is missing or incorrect.

  • Next steps: Make sure you’ve included your API key in the request. You can find or manage your key in your Surfe account dashboard.


403 – Forbidden

  • What it means: The request cannot be handled because it would either exceed your daily quota or there are not enough credits available.

  • Next steps: Check your credit balance via your Surfe dashboard or the Get Credits endpoint. If you've hit your daily quota, wait until midnight for it to reset. If you need higher limits or are unsure what's causing this, contact our support team via Intercom and we'll help you out.


429 – Too many Requests

  • What it means: You've exceeded the rate limit by sending too many requests too quickly.

  • Next steps: Slow down your requests and try again. The rate limit resets every minute. You can send up to 10 requests per second, with bursts of up to 20 occasionally.


500 – Internal Server Error

  • What it means: Something went wrong on our end.

  • Next steps: Try the request again after a short break. If the problem continues, please reach out to the support team via intercom.


503 – Time out

  • What it means: Request timed out. Current operation took too long to complete and was aborted.

  • Next steps: Wait a few minutes and try again. If the issue continues, contact the support team via intercom.


All error responses include the a JSON body with the following format:

{ "code": 400, // The same as the HTTP Status code "message": "Invalid request", // A message with an explanation of what went wrong }

If you’re ever unsure about a response or need help, don’t hesitate to contact our support team via intercom, we’re here to help!

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