Phase 1: Create the trust and apparence of a sizeable company

It usually start by a cool looking Chinese person with a smile

Certain Chinese companies use deceptive tactics, such as having young salespeople pose with hand-written signs featuring the buyer's company name, to build false trust. These images create the illusion of transparency and professionalism, making buyers feel reassured. However, behind the scenes, the products are often of poor quality, sometimes made from used or recycled parts. This tactic distracts buyers from questioning the legitimacy of the transaction, resulting in financial losses. It’s vital to conduct thorough due diligence and not be swayed by these superficial attempts at building confidence.

 

Alibaba is dedicated to nurturing that trust.

Phase 2: Let's transition to another platform to avoid chat discussions from Alibaba and any associated evidence.

Chinese manufacturers often suggest moving communication from Alibaba’s platform to WhatsApp, presenting it as a way to improve communication efficiency. They claim that WhatsApp allows for faster responses, easier file sharing, and real-time updates. However, behind this seemingly convenient shift lies a hidden agenda: by moving conversations off Alibaba, sellers limit their exposure and accountability on the platform, putting buyers at greater risk.

 

When communications remain on Alibaba’s platform, every message is tracked and recorded, offering a level of transparency and accountability. This helps Alibaba monitor the transaction and dispute resolution process. Should any issues arise, buyers can use the Alibaba chat logs as evidence when filing disputes or claims under Alibaba’s Trade Assurance. This ensures that the platform can step in if things go wrong, making it harder for unscrupulous sellers to act dishonestly.


However, by moving to WhatsApp, sellers can manipulate the communication process, making it more difficult for buyers to hold them accountable. In many cases, vital discussions about product quality, shipment issues, or discrepancies go undocumented. If the deal turns sour, buyers may have no official records on Alibaba to back up their claims, leaving them vulnerable and at the mercy of the seller. Some buyers report that once communication moves off the platform, sellers begin making changes to the agreed-upon terms, such as altering prices or shipment details, with little to no recourse available through Alibaba.


In addition to this, Alibaba’s dispute resolution services become largely ineffective when critical conversations occur outside its ecosystem. Without proper records, the platform may be unable to intervene effectively, leaving buyers to deal directly with the seller. This shift to WhatsApp undermines the protection that Alibaba offers, allowing sellers to operate with less oversight.


To protect yourself, always insist on keeping all communications, agreements, and transaction details on Alibaba’s platform to ensure transparency, traceability, and to safeguard your rights as a buyer.

Phase 3: The negociations and urgency to take the bait

During negotiations, the pressure to make a quick decision often intensifies with a variety of justifications. The sales team will frequently emphasize the urgency, explaining that the machine in stock is about to be sold within the next few hours due to high demand. Adding to the pressure, they may mention that upcoming holidays are around the corner, which could cause delays, making now the best time to secure the deal.

To further push the decision, they'll remind you that shipping rates are on the rise, suggesting that waiting any longer will result in higher costs for transportation. They’ll also reference the increasing price of steel, stressing that the machine’s price is likely to go up soon, locking in a sense of scarcity.

Of course, amid these pressing reasons, they’ll guarantee that the quality of their machine is unmatched, claiming it’s the best of the best in town and superior to anything available locally in your country. They'll insist that no domestic manufacturer can compete in terms of quality, promising that their product is of such high standard that it’s worth every penny spent.

These tactics create a sense of urgency, making you feel as though you're missing out on an extraordinary deal if you hesitate.

Several examples of scammer techniques used in WhatsApp messages.

Top 10 Catchphrases Commonly Used by Scammers

  • We want to establish long-term cooperation with you
  • You are our most important client, and we will prioritize your orders
  • We only offer premium quality products that are far superior to others
  • This product is in high demand; you won't find this quality anywhere else
  • Our prices are unbeatable, and you won’t find a better deal
  • We can help you expand your market in your country
  • Our product has no competition in your country; you’ll dominate the market
  • The factory is running low on stock; you should place the order now before it’s gone
  • We’ve been working with clients in Europe/America for years; our quality is guaranteed
  • We are the manufacturer, and we control every step of production to ensure the best quality

    • This is what you never seen in terms of an Alibaba or Chinese manufacturers scam...The new money making machine for these companies.

    In recent years, a troubling trend has emerged among certain Chinese manufacturers where they take recycled industrial machinery, repackage it as new, and sell it to unsuspecting buyers. These manufacturers refurbish old, often worn-out machines by giving them a fresh coat of paint and new packaging, while disguising the fact that the majority of the components are recycled or heavily used parts. The only part of the machine that might be new is the frame, giving the appearance of a factory-fresh product, while the internal components such as electrical wiring, generators, diesel engines, and other essential parts are old and repurposed.


    In many cases, the serial number plates are grinded off or entirely removed, making it impossible for buyers to trace the origins of the parts used in the machine. This tactic deliberately prevents potential customers from verifying the age or condition of the components they are purchasing. Without a serial number, a buyer has no way of determining if the machine is made up of old or mismatched parts that are likely near the end of their lifespan.

    New text element

    For example, in the case of our rock crushers, the manufacturers BTMA made a frame that looks brand new but fill it with components like a used diesel engines, worn-out gears, and faulty electrical systems. The machine, while seemingly pristine on the outside, will quickly break down because the internal components are already past their prime. Buyers may initially be satisfied with their purchase, believing they’ve acquired a high-quality, brand-new machine, only to discover the reality after the equipment starts failing far earlier than expected.


    The life expectancy of these machines is typically extremely limited. Since many of the parts have already been heavily used in other machines, they do not function with the reliability of a true new product. Buyers are left with a piece of equipment that may look new but will require constant repairs or early replacement, which was never anticipated when making the purchase.


    This practice is a clear form of deception that puts buyers at risk of significant financial losses. Many customers pay full price for a machine they believe is new, but instead receive a product with inferior performance and an incredibly short lifespan. Buyers should be cautious and conduct thorough due diligence when purchasing industrial machines from such manufacturers, as these tactics are designed to **exploit trust and obscure the true quality of the product.

    Alibaba's part in the scheme

    Phase 4: The confidence part: The Alibaba quality inspector

    When purchasing through Alibaba, many buyers rely on the platform’s product verification service—a paid service that sends an investigator to inspect the goods for quality and take photos of the items. This service is meant to provide buyers with peace of mind, but manufacturers have grown savvy to the process. They often schedule the inspection on a day when the machine is already wrapped and ready for shipment, making it nearly impossible for the inspector to fully assess its condition.


    In many cases, key components, like engines or electrical systems, may be piled in a corner, out of sight, and not thoroughly checked.


    The investigator, constrained by time and access, typically gives the product a positive report, with only superficial checks completed. The buyer then receives photos of a fully wrapped machine or parts that cannot be properly evaluated.


    These misleading photos and reports later become critical when the buyer files a dispute under Trade Assurance. Alibaba uses these photos as evidence that the goods were in perfect condition before leaving the factory, sealing the buyer’s fate. Even though the inspection did not properly examine the most critical parts of the machine, the buyer has no recourse, as the photos taken by the investigator are treated as proof of the product’s quality.

    This loophole allows manufacturers to pass off inferior goods as new, while Alibaba’s verification process unintentionally aids in the deception.

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    More on that The Alibaba quality inspector


    Alibaba’s quality inspector scheme is another deceptive layer designed to reinforce buyer trust—but in practice, it functions as a biased mechanism that protects Alibaba’s financial interests. Here's how it works: buyers can pay for an independent inspection service, allegedly to verify the quality of goods before shipment. However, this system is fundamentally flawed and compromised.


    Alibaba profits from every corner of the transaction—earning fees from sellers, buyers, and inspectors. This setup creates an inherent conflict of interest. Since Alibaba is incentivized to facilitate transactions smoothly, the inspectors are inclined to submit favorable reports that expedite deals. This raises questions about the inspectors’ neutrality and effectiveness in identifying issues with the products.


    Inspections are often rushed or staged. Sellers strategically arrange inspections when the goods are already packed, limiting the inspector's ability to perform detailed checks. Critical components are hidden or left unchecked, with inspectors providing surface-level evaluations and photographs of wrapped products. These inadequate inspections are later used by Alibaba to deny buyer complaints, arguing that the goods were verified before shipment.


    The result? Buyers are left with faulty or substandard goods, while Alibaba evades accountability by pointing to the inspection report as proof of quality. This system not only exploits buyer trust but also makes Alibaba an active participant in enabling deceptive practices by sellers. The buyer ends up at the losing end, paying for inspections that serve Alibaba’s interests rather than ensuring transparency and quality.

    In many cases, key components, like engines or electrical systems, may be piled in a corner, out of sight, and not thoroughly checked. 


    The investigator, constrained by time and access, typically gives the product a positive report, with only superficial checks completed. The buyer then receives photos of a fully wrapped machine or parts that cannot be properly evaluated.


    These misleading photos and reports later become critical when the buyer files a dispute under Trade Assurance. Alibaba uses these photos as evidence that the goods were in perfect condition before leaving the factory, sealing the buyer’s fate. Even though the inspection did not properly examine the most critical parts of the machine, the buyer has no recourse, as the photos taken by the investigator are treated as proof of the product’s quality.

    This loophole allows manufacturers to pass off inferior goods as new, while Alibaba’s verification process unintentionally aids in the deception.

    The Alibaba Trade non-insurance

    Here are some common issues reported with Alibaba Trade Assurance that should make you reconsider if this is worth it or not.


    - Slow Dispute Resolution: Buyers often experience delays in receiving responses or resolutions, sometimes dealing with automated replies instead of personal assistance.


    - Partial Refunds: Refunds may not cover the full loss, and return shipping costs can be high, especially for large items, making it difficult to get a full refund.


    - Premature Case Closures: Some disputes are closed without buyer consent, leaving issues unresolved or with inadequate compensation.


    - Lack of Enforcement on Suppliers: Some suppliers make false claims, and without strong evidence, Alibaba may side with them. Even verified suppliers have sold substandard goods.


    - Inconsistent Offers: Refund offers can change during the dispute process, creating confusion.


    - Communication Issues: Language barriers and difficulty reaching the mediation team can further delay the process.


    - Exclusion of Fees: Trade Assurance doesn’t cover customs duties or shipping costs, which can lead to unexpected expenses.


    - Despite protections, many users face delays, inconsistent resolutions, and communication challenges.


    Alibaba’s Exhaustion Tactics: Lies, Delays, and Coupons to Keep You Spending

    Alibaba’s Trade Assurance is not about protecting buyers—it's about wearing you down until you quit. Through empty promises, stalling tactics, and last-minute changes, Alibaba leaves buyers frustrated, out of options, and out of pocket. Once the platform has you hooked with deceptive vendor practices and fake promises, the real game begins: run the clock, lowball the refund, and close the case before you can react.


    The Same Script, Repeated Until You Give Up

    Alibaba’s customer service agents master the art of stalling. Whether it’s "Your case is being escalated," or "Rest assured, your issue is our top priority," the only thing that stays consistent is that nothing happens. Here’s what you’ll hear, again and again:

    • "Our higher team will contact you within one business day."
    • "We’ve noted this in your case file. Expect an update soon."
    • "This is urgent; you’ll get a resolution shortly."

    But here’s the reality—weeks will pass, and the only thing you’ll receive are automated messages and lowball offers designed to make you give up.


    The Refund That Magically Disappears

    In classic bait-and-switch fashion, Alibaba offers an initial refund that suddenly shrinks without explanation.

    • First, it’s: "We can offer $1200 as compensation."
    • Then: "Sorry, the seller can now only offer $800."

    This is no accident—it’s a deliberate ploy to frustrate buyers until they give in and settle for less. If you push back? They’ll blame you for improper use of the product, even if you’ve sent dozens of photos proving the machine was defective on arrival.


    Running Out the Clock and Closing the Case

    When you insist the case stays open, you’ll get more hollow reassurances:

    • "Don’t worry, we’ve noted it in your case file."
    • "The higher team is reviewing everything."

    But no matter how many times you ask, the case will be closed—with Alibaba claiming you didn’t respond in time. This isn’t a mistake; it’s the plan. They delay just long enough to run out the dispute window, then shut the case down, leaving you with nothing but frustration and a broken product.

    Coupons: The Final Insult

    And here’s the kicker—when all is said and done, Alibaba won’t refund your money. Instead, they’ll offer $600 in coupons:

    • "Here are two $300 coupons. Only one can be used per order, and they expire in 90 days."

    This is a trap to force you to spend more money on the platform that scammed you in the first place. It's not compensation—it’s a ploy to keep you locked into their system. You’re expected to buy more garbage just to make up for the money they helped the seller steal from you.


    A System Built to Protect Sellers, Not Buyers

    Make no mistake—Alibaba’s Trade Assurance is a sham. The platform sides with the seller, drags out the dispute, and then lowballs the refund—all while tricking you into spending more with coupons. Here’s how they do it:

    • Delay everything until the dispute window closes.
    • Reduce refunds at the last minute, leaving you with fewer options.
    • Close cases without proper notice, blaming you for missing deadlines.
    • Offer coupons instead of refunds to keep you spending money on their platform.


    Conclusion: Fight Hard, Expose the Scam

    If you plan to buy from Alibaba, document everything and fight for every penny—because their system isn’t designed to protect you. It's designed to exhaust you. Expect delays, excuses, and lowball offers, and don’t settle for coupons. Take to YouTube, TikTok, and every social platform you can find to expose their tactics. Buyers deserve to know what they’re walking into: a rigged game where the house always wins.

    Tips on TradeAssurance to avoid getting scammed

    1. Use Trade Assurance for Payments only, it is better than paying the seller directly

    2. Research the Supplier Thoroughly but there is nothign that will garantee your product will be great unless you go yourself to China to see it.

    3. Request Detailed Product Information and ask over and over about everything, from bolts quality, to paint origin and composition to packaging.

    4. Ask for Proof of New Products for any parts that compose what you are buying, dont hesite to piss them off with request otherwise you will regret it.

    5. Negotiate Clear Contract Terms but remember that the Chinese sellers will play on each words not to respect their words.

    6. Document Everything but remember that once your payment has left your account, you are alone and at risk so hold to it till the very last minute

    7. Inspect Goods before departure if you can and Upon Arrival at the first minute and claim immediately and get ready to fight for each penny.

    8. Don’t Accept Low Refunds, it is garantee that Alibaba will lowball you, and offer you ideally to settlee for nothing or close your case without merit.

    9. Prepare for Returns even if Alibaba will make you feel it is a very bad decision, with tons of fees, customs and shipping...ask immediately for a refund.

    10. Act Quickly in Case of a Dispute as the seller will try to run out delays so you cant claim anything, sellers are very cleve and know the rules much better than you do.

    Our experience with this clever scam from HENAN BENTENG MACHINERY CO., LTD, a Verified seller on Alibaba.

    Henan Benteng Machinery Co., Ltd. (also known as BTMA) is based in Zhengzhou, Henan, China. Established in 2015, the company primarily produces and exports industrial equipment such as jaw crushers, oil presses, ball mills, hammer crushers, and palm oil machines. Their products are marketed toward industries like mining, construction, and food processing

    ALIBABA.COM and MADE-IN-CHINA.COM

    .

    This company promotes itself as a reliable manufacturer, with certifications like ISO9001:2000 to ensure product quality. They highlight their ability to offer custom solutions and claim to have strong after-sales support, although the scope of these services may vary based on customer experience

    BENTENG MACHINE.


    Henan Benteng has been active on Alibaba and similar marketplaces, where they leverage tools like Trade Assurance to foster trust with buyers. However, they are known to recommend shifting discussions from Alibaba to platforms like WhatsApp, which could raise concerns about transparency and accountability during the purchase process


    When purchasing from companies like Henan Benteng, potential buyers are encouraged to perform thorough due diligence and maintain records of communication, especially if using Alibaba’s Trade Assurance program. Issues related to discrepancies between advertised and delivered products or the use of recycled parts have been raised by some buyers—hence it is advisable to stay cautious throughout the transaction and dispute process.


    If you have had any direct experiences or challenges with this company and need further advice on the next steps, feel free to ask!


    Alibaba and Chinese Sellers: A System You Can’t Trust


    When it comes to Alibaba and Chinese sellers, the truth is harsh: you cannot trust them. Alibaba isn’t just a platform; it’s a

    systemic scam that sellers have mastered to milk buyers dry. Both Alibaba and its sellers know the game inside and out—dragging out disputes, altering terms, and erasing conversations the moment they become inconvenient. If you think Trade Assurance will protect you, you’re dead wrong.


    How the Scam Works

    Sellers are experts at manipulating the process, starting with smooth talk and seemingly professional interactions. They push you to WhatsApp or other platforms, so Alibaba won’t track key conversations. That’s where promises start shifting—parts get swapped, prices change, and delivery times stretch indefinitely. By the time you figure out what’s happening, you’ve already lost.

    When issues arise, Alibaba inspectors give the illusion of control. Inspections are superficial, timed when goods are already packed, so they can't thoroughly check what you’re buying. These staged reports are later weaponized by Alibaba to deny your dispute. Alibaba profits at every step, so they have no interest in siding with you. They take fees from the seller, the inspector, and you—making it clear whose side they’re really on.


    The Deletion Tactic: Alibaba’s Last Move

    The most dangerous part? Alibaba deletes chat logs and critical evidence without warning. When the conversation doesn’t serve their interests, it vanishes, leaving you with no way to prove your case. If you trusted Alibaba’s promises, you’re in for a rude awakening—because by the time you need help, the system has already turned against you.


    How to Protect Yourself—If You Dare to Engage

    • Backup Everything: Save every chat, email, and invoice locally. Assume nothing will remain intact on Alibaba’s platform.
    • Demand Proof of Every Detail: Ask for time-stamped photos and detailed videos of every part of the product. If the seller gets irritated, you’re on the right track—they’re hiding something.
    • Refuse to Move Off-Platform: Stay on Alibaba’s chat system, no matter what. If a seller insists on WhatsApp, it’s a scam.
    • Ignore Scarcity Lies: Sellers will tell you things like, “There’s high demand!” or “This is your last chance!” These are classic pressure tactics. Don’t fall for it.
    • Consider Other Platforms: Alibaba has proven itself unreliable. Look for local suppliers or other platforms with better transparency and customer service.

    Walk Away Before It’s Too Late

    Alibaba and its sellers are running a well-oiled machine—profiting from deception, delays, and vanished evidence. If you choose to engage with them, expect nothing but frustration and financial loss. Save yourself the trouble: Don’t believe their promises, don’t fall for the fake inspections, and don’t trust a word from their customer service agents.

    Once you’re caught in this web, you’re on your own. Take every precaution, document every word, and be prepared to fight tooth and nail—because Alibaba and Chinese sellers are not here to help you but help their bank account.

    Conclusion: A Scam That Costs More Than Money

    This scam isn’t just about a faulty machine—it’s about the opportunities lost for those who needed it most. A $30,000 piece of equipment, intended to build roads and provide water, turned out to be nothing but scrap dressed as new. The community relying on that machine is left with nothing—no road, no water, and no hope.

    Alibaba’s system, riddled with delays, deceit, and vanishing evidence, enables these scams, and the sellers exploit it perfectly. The cost isn’t just financial—it’s the dreams and futures of entire communities that are shattered.

    If this is the price of trusting Alibaba, it’s a price no one should pay.