How to restrict COD to trusted customers only in WooCommerce

Cash on Delivery (COD) is convenient, but it also brings risks of fake or canceled orders.

With the Fraud Prevention plugin, you can restrict COD so it is available only to trusted customers — for example, repeat buyers or verified users.

This guide explains how to configure rules in WooCommerce so COD is offered only to customers who meet your trust criteria. It helps reduce fraud, minimize returns, and protect cash flow. (Plugin feature: Payment Method Restrictions)

Preconditions

• Fraud Prevention For WooCommerce plugin is installed and activated.
• At least one payment method (COD) is enabled.
• Criteria for "trusted customers" are defined (e.g., repeat buyers, order history, or verified email).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Enable COD

• Go to WooCommerce → Settings → Payments.
• Ensure Cash on Delivery is enabled.

2. Open Fraud Prevention Settings

• Navigate to Dotstore → Fraud Prevention → General Settings.

3. Define Trusted Customer Criteria

• Enable the feature from the 'Secure Checkout and Payment Settings' section:

  

4. Save and Test

• Save changes.

  On checkout, test with:

  • Add a fraud email and select the Cash on Delivery (COD) payment option
  • Attempt more than 3 times to block COD.

Alternate Flows

• By Location: Allow COD only in low-risk regions.
• By Order Value: Allow COD for orders below $200 only.
• By Email Domain: Block free or disposable email domains (e.g., @mailinator.com).

Business Benefits

• Reduce fraudulent COD orders.
• Improve delivery success rate.
• Save money on returns and logistics.
• Build trust with genuine customers by offering COD selectively.

Expected Outcome

• COD option is not shown to unverified or new customers.
• COD is available only to trusted buyers who meet your set rules.
• Checkout becomes more secure, with reduced fake orders and refunds.