It’s one of those things where paying in advance is not a good idea because of how sketch it can be. And you should not use identifiable information when creating an account or paying. E.g. a good provider only accepts crypto.
The only wholesaler I’m currently aware of has been operating for 5+ years the length I’ve been aware of their existence. So there’s definitely trustworthy providers out there. I have no idea how to research good providers since IPTV talk gets shut down every where.