Is Coinbase Safe & Reliable? Full Review, Features & Risks

By Phillip Parker|Updated: September 28, 2025|Since: June 12, 2017

CPO was created by business owners to help others avoid unethical and expensive merchant account providers. To support the continued operation of this website we sell advertising to ethical... processors who have earned top marks in pricing, support, and business practices. Some of the recommendations found on this website may be paid placements.

Note: The 2023 SEC lawsuit against Coinbase has led us to recommend caution to businesses considering Coinbase for any major payment services until the lawsuit is settled.

Overview

In this Coinbase review, we’ll provide a clear look at their virtual currency services, including cryptocurrency trading, digital wallets, and merchant payment solutions. We’ll outline which users and businesses may benefit most, while also highlighting customer reviews to reveal common feedback and concerns. Along with services, we’ll cover fees, security measures, and key features so you know what to expect. By the end, you’ll have the insights you need to decide whether Coinbase is the right choice for your cryptocurrency needs.

This company is led by Brian Armstrong. Visit the owner profile for additional background information.

About The Author

Phillip Parker

CPO Creator & Founder

Since 2009, I have researched over 1,000 merchant services providers and published hundreds of payment education-related articles. This work has received national recognition, and my expertise in payments is regularly sought by large media outlets such as CNN, MSN, and INC Magazine, among dozens of others.

Shortly after graduating from college, I was recruited into a sales role with a credit card processor. Only later did I realize that the so-called "training" centered on selling expensive processing agreements... layered with hidden fees and long-term contracts. In my earliest transactions, I unknowingly steered friends and family into costly arrangements after they trusted my recommendation. When I fully understood the structure of what I had been selling, I resigned immediately and committed myself to exposing those practices. That commitment became the foundation of this website.

As Has Appeared In

About Us

CardPaymentOptions.com

Established 2009

This website was launched in 2009 as a modest blog dedicated to exposing questionable marketing and pricing practices within the credit card processing industry and how they negatively impact small business owners. What began as a side project has since evolved into a widely recognized platform advocating for transparency, accountability, and ethical standards in merchant services.

Our Research Methodology

Pricing & Fees

We analyze all costs including rate structures (interchange-plus, tiered, flat-rate, etc), monthly fees, equipment costs, early termination fees, and hidden charges. This data is gathered from service agreements, statements and client feedback.

Features & Technology

Evaluation of POS systems, e-commerce integrations, mobile capabilities, reporting tools, recurring billing..., and developer resources. When possible, we directly test services and hardware. Otherwise, we rely on client feedback and public information.

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