High-risk products are those that come with regulatory challenges, increased chargeback rates, or higher liability concerns. Businesses dealing in these products often face difficulties securing payment processing solutions, insurance, and even advertising due to their nature.
Despite these challenges, many high-risk products remain highly profitable. Take a few minutes to learn about this categorization, as well as some of the products to which it pertains.
1. CBD and hemp products.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp-derived products are among the most popular high-risk goods. While CBD is legal in many regions, laws vary from state to state and country to country.
Payment processors and banks consider CBD high-risk due to potential regulatory changes, fraud risks, and the possibility of chargebacks from unsatisfied customers.
Common CBD products:
- CBD oils and tinctures
- CBD-infused edibles and drinks
- Topical CBD creams and balms
- Hemp-derived cosmetics
2. Nutraceuticals and weight loss products.
Dietary supplements, especially weight loss products, often fall into the high-risk category due to the potential for false advertising claims and refund requests.
Many of these products are marketed with exaggerated health benefits, leading to higher chargeback rates and scrutiny from regulatory agencies like the FDA and FTC.
Common supplements:
- Herbal weight-loss pills
- Testosterone boosters
- Detox and cleansing products
- Performance-enhancing supplements
3. Vapes and e-cigarettes.
The vaping industry has seen exponential growth, but remains high-risk due to evolving regulations and health concerns.
Many financial institutions avoid working with vape businesses due to concerns over underage sales, government restrictions, and litigation risks related to health claims.
Popular vape products:
- E-liquids and nicotine salts
- Disposable and refillable vape pens
- Vape accessories (coils, batteries, tanks)
- CBD and THC vape cartridges
4. Firearms and ammunition.
Guns, ammunition, and firearm accessories are heavily regulated, making them a high-risk product. Legal requirements vary widely by location, and some payment processors refuse to support firearm sales due to liability concerns.
Online gun sales often require complex verification processes to comply with legal restrictions.
Common high-risk firearm products:
- Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
- Ammunition and reloading supplies
- Gun parts and accessories
- Tactical gear and self-defense weapons
5. Adult products and entertainment.
The adult industry—including sex toys, lingerie, and explicit content—faces high chargeback rates, strict advertising restrictions, and a stigma that leads many financial institutions to classify it as high-risk.
Popular adult products:
- Sex toys and personal wellness items
- Online adult content subscriptions
- Exotic dancer and escort services
- Lingerie and fetish wear
6. High-ticket electronics.
Expensive electronics, including gaming consoles, smartphones, and computers, are considered high-risk due to fraud concerns.
Stolen credit cards and unauthorized transactions are common in this industry, leading to high chargeback rates.
Commonly sold high-risk electronics:
- Smartphones and tablets
- Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo)
- Laptops and desktop computers
- Smart home devices and security cameras
7. Collectibles and luxury items.
The market for collectibles, including sneakers, trading cards, and luxury watches, is prone to counterfeiting and fraud. Many buyers attempt chargebacks after receiving counterfeit goods, or sellers fall victim to fraudulent transactions.
Common High-Risk Collectibles:
- Limited-edition sneakers
- Designer handbags and jewelry
- Vintage sports memorabilia
- Rare coins and trading cards
8. Online gambling and igaming.
The gambling and gaming industry—including casinos, sports betting, and lottery services—faces strict regulations and high chargeback risks. Many users deposit funds impulsively and later dispute transactions, leading banks, and payment processors to categorize gambling businesses as high-risk.
Popular high-risk gaming services:
- Online poker and casino websites
- Sports betting platforms
- Fantasy sports leagues
- Esports gambling
9. Pharmaceuticals and online prescription drugs.
Selling prescription drugs online is highly regulated and comes with legal risks, especially when prescriptions are not verified properly. Many payment processors avoid this industry due to concerns over counterfeit medication and unapproved sales.
Common high-risk pharmaceuticals sold online:
- Prescription medications (e.g., painkillers, antidepressants)
- Over-the-counter drugs (e.g., allergy pills, cold medicine)
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Performance-enhancing drugs (e.g., steroids, peptides)
10. Subscription-based services
Many businesses offering recurring billing or subscription-based services experience high chargeback rates due to customers forgetting to cancel their subscriptions or feeling misled by free trials.
This is especially common in industries like digital marketing tools, dating apps, and software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms.
Common high-risk subscription services:
- Streaming services (e.g., music, movies, sports)
- Software and cloud storage services
- Online courses and coaching programs
- Dating websites and apps
Businesses selling high-risk products face unique challenges, including stricter regulations, fraud risks, and difficulties securing payment processing solutions. However, with the right risk management strategies, secure payment processors, and compliance measures, high-risk businesses can thrive while minimizing financial losses.
