When you submit an inquiry and basically 9 out of 10 responses ask for a WhatsApp number and then somebody reaches out.
Do you basically just assume they are trying to scam you? Or is this actually customary for products?
Ignore those asking you to go outside of the platform, as with any other site, they are seeking to drag you off the platform, to ensure you are outside of any buyer protection and the whole conversation is out of reach.
3 Likes
It’s actually quite common for suppliers on Alibaba to ask for your WhatsApp number, it’s a preferred communication method for many of them because it’s quicker, more direct, and allows for sharing images, videos, and voice messages easily. That said, while it’s not automatically a red flag, as @Kika says, you should still proceed with caution. Always keep initial conversations within Alibaba until you’re confident about the supplier’s legitimacy, and never make payments or place orders outside of Alibaba’s Trade Assurance system, as that’s where the real risk of scams comes in. Use WhatsApp for quicker communication if you want, but keep formal transactions and agreements within Alibaba for your protection.
Communication can be done via WhatsApp, but your purchases need to be made using Alibaba, for your safety.
2 Likes
To guarantee safety and assistance, always order via Alibaba, not WhatsApp.
1 Like
Customary, never purchase anything through whatsapp make sure it’s only through alibaba then they’re held reliable if they don’t ship or item is damaged.
1 Like
The suppliers are not always online. When you want to build a long-term relationship with the supplier, it is better to talk on Whatsapp/Teams or other APPs that which are convenient for both of you
1 Like
I never give out my WhatsApp number. It’s annoying to receive seller calls in the middle of the night. Just tell them to contact you on Alibaba chat, or at most, your email; better yet, create an email just for Alibaba sellers.
1 Like
I would recommend not sharing your WhatsApp number until you have finalized working with a particular vendor to place your order. Make your first few orders only through the Alibaba website for payment protection and quality assurance. In my experience, I sent queries to five suppliers and received responses from about ten, which is why I stopped sharing my WhatsApp number until I actually started working with them.
1 Like
It’s customary to make the purchase through Alibaba but communicate through WhatsApp, which is much easier than communicating through Alibaba.​
1 Like
Exactly, Alibaba’s chat can be slow and less user-friendly compared to WhatsApp. However, it’s advisable to finalize deals on WhatsApp and then ask the seller to replicate the same agreement on Alibaba’s chat. Ensure that all payments are made through Alibaba’s portal to maintain buyer protection.​
1 Like
Unfortunately, no one is willing to provide an invoice through Alibaba. Everyone has asked for a wire transfer, which seems quite shady.