So there are multiple ways and paths that can be taken. You're doing CC Skimming early, which is a smart path that I like to take as well. However, if you spent that time stealing and pawning, or pick pocketing, or boxing, or several other paths, you could have earned the money needed instead of the credit cards. Both are viable paths, and it may seem OP but that is because you focused energy on that path. Skimming is powerful, and you can definitely get good weapons that way, so skim away! Functioning as intended :) You won't think credit cards are too easy when you start needing to buy fertilizer and other ingredients, just wait haha. The web stores are balanced, there are many important things there that will become relevant later.
Keep me posted, thanks for playing! I am happy to answer any other questions you may have.
PS - Part of the reason I added powerful weapons to the dark web is to encourage players to skim early. Skimming is a semi-passive skill since it produces over time, and if not started at a decent time, can drag you down late game.