Payment Options and Safety

Offer convenient payment methods and avoid fraud.

In this lesson you will

Compare payment options
Confirm payments safely

Key concepts

mobile moneypayment gatewayscash on deliveryfraud checks

The lesson

Common options: mobile money, bank transfer, card payments through a gateway, and cash on delivery. Each has different fees, risks and convenience.

Cash on delivery builds trust but risks refused deliveries; deposits reduce that risk.

Confirm every payment in your own account before dispatch, not by screenshot, and never share PINs or codes.

Step by step

List payment options for your shop.
Compare fees and risks.
Set payment rules.
Practise confirming payments.

Troubleshooting tree

Is this order safe to dispatch?

Checking payment before an order leaves the shop.

Is the order prepaid?

Yes
Can you see the payment in your own mobile money or bank account (not just a screenshot from the customer)?
- Yes
  Dispatch. Record the transaction reference with the order.
- No
  Do not dispatch yet. Ask the customer to wait until the payment appears; screenshots can be faked.
No
Is it cash on delivery to a new customer for a high-value order?
- Yes
  Ask for a deposit that covers delivery, or confirm by phone before sending.
- No
  Dispatch with clear instructions to the rider to collect payment before handing over.

Notes

Never share PINs or verification codes, and be wary of 'I sent too much, please refund the difference' messages.

Practice activity

Write your payment policy.

Expected result: A clear, safe payment policy.

Check your understanding

What is the main risk of cash on delivery?

Show answer
Refused deliveries.
How should you confirm a payment?

Show answer
In your own account, not by screenshot.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.