Written by: Merchant Connect UK
Running a high-risk business online—whether in industries like gaming, CBD, forex, or adult entertainment—requires more than just a great website. The right payment gateway is essential for securely processing transactions and keeping your business running smoothly.
In 2025, high-risk merchants face unique challenges such as higher chargeback risks, stricter regulations, and limited support from mainstream processors. Choosing the right payment gateway for platforms like WooCommerce, Shopify, and Magento can make all the difference.
This guide will cover the best high-risk payment gateways in 2025, what to look for, and how to integrate them into your online store.
Traditional providers often decline or freeze accounts for high-risk merchants. High-risk payment gateways offer:
Chargeback protection tools
Flexible underwriting for high-risk industries
Multi-currency support for international customers
Better approval rates than traditional processors
While Authorize.Net doesn’t directly support high-risk businesses, many providers integrate it with high-risk merchant accounts. Ideal for WooCommerce and Magento.
Key features:
Fraud detection suite
Subscription billing
Extensive integrations
A flexible gateway that works across multiple high-risk industries, NMI is a solid option for Shopify and WooCommerce merchants.
Key features:
Customisable payment solutions
Advanced reporting tools
Supports multiple processors
Although Stripe itself is restrictive, certain high-risk resellers provide access to Stripe’s robust infrastructure for approved industries. Works well with Shopify and WooCommerce.
Key features:
Easy integration
Recurring billing
3D Secure support
PayKings specialises in high-risk industries, offering direct payment gateway and merchant account solutions for WooCommerce, Shopify, and Magento.
Key features:
Global payment support
High approval rates
Chargeback prevention tools
For merchants struggling with domestic approvals, offshore gateways remain a strong 2025 option. These gateways often integrate seamlessly with Magento and WooCommerce.
Key features:
Multi-currency & international banking
Higher tolerance for chargebacks
Access to alternative payment methods (APMs)
Compatibility – Ensure your gateway integrates with your eCommerce platform (WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento).
Fees & Rates – Expect higher processing fees (typically 3–7%) for high-risk industries.
Fraud & Chargeback Protection – Look for built-in risk management tools.
Customer Experience – Fast, seamless checkouts are essential for higher conversion rates.
Scalability – Choose a gateway that can grow with your business.
In 2025, choosing the best high-risk payment gateway for your WooCommerce, Shopify, or Magento store is about balancing compliance, security, and customer experience. By partnering with a trusted high-risk payment provider, you can ensure smooth transactions, minimise risks, and expand your online business globally.
👉 At Merchant Connect, we help high-risk merchants find the best payment gateway solutions tailored to their business needs.
📩 Contact us today to get started with a secure, reliable, and scalable high-risk payment gateway.