Is AliExpress Safe?
Ensuring Secure Transactions On AliExpress

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Online shopping is nothing new, but we’ve seen websites that sell everyday items take off in recent years. From stocking up on toilet rolls to cleaning products, websites like eBay, Amazon and AliExpress offer convenience for shoppers worldwide.

AliExpress is a global online retail service comprising small businesses in China and elsewhere. Since its 2010 launch, the platform has provided affordable products to people worldwide and is now an e-commerce giant.

There’s no doubt that AliExpress establishes itself as a way to connect buyers offering low-cost products with sellers who want to purchase them—but is it safe?

Find out as we explore everything you need to know about AliExpress, including how to make secure transactions.

is aliexpress safe ensuring secure transactions on aliexpress

How does AliExpress work?

AliExpress, a cornerstone of the Alibaba Group, has emerged as a global e-commerce powerhouse. Originating as a platform for Chinese manufacturers to sell directly to consumers, AliExpress has expanded its reach to encompass many products and a diverse customer base.

While initially serving as a bulk sales channel, it has evolved into a retail giant, rivalling industry leaders like Amazon.

The platform’s affordability and extensive product range have contributed to its meteoric rise, particularly in Russia, Latin America, and Europe.

But, its rapid growth and dominance in the e-commerce landscape have also ignited concerns about data privacy and the trustworthiness of products sold on the platform.

Security Features on AliExpress

The platform offers a range of security measures to protect your AliExpress account. They include:

Buyer Protection Program: AliExpress offers a Buyer Protection Program that ensures shoppers receive their purchases within the specified timeframe. If your product fails to arrive or doesn’t match the description, the platform says it will issue a full refund.
Escrow Payment System: Escrow payment systems are popular on freelancing platforms, but AliExpress also uses one. When you make a purchase, the platform holds your payment and only releases it once you confirm you’re happy with the product. The system serves as a fraud safeguard.
Seller Ratings and Reviews: Each seller on AliExpress is rated by previous buyers, and detailed reviews are often available for specific products. These ratings and reviews are crucial for ensuring you purchase from a reputable seller. You can avoid sellers with a history of poor service or substandard products by reviewing the feedback.
AliExpress’s Dispute Resolution Process: If you encounter any issues with a purchase, AliExpress offers a structured dispute resolution process. Buyers and sellers can communicate directly to resolve problems. The platform will mediate the situation if needed.

Which payment methods are available on AliExpress?

AliExpress offers a range of payment solutions, depending on where you live. Understanding the potential drawbacks of each method can help you stay safe when shopping online.

Debit card and credit card payments

Credit cards are popular ways to make purchases, but there can be some risks. If cybercriminals access your personal information, credit card fraud is dangerous. Debit cards are another popular payment option, but they link to your bank account.

Digital wallets

Digital wallets are often more secure than debit or credit cards, as they have additional security measures. The most popular wallets for AliExpress shoppers include:

PayPal allows users to transact with the existing balance or link their bank account. If someone manages to steal your PayPal login information, they’ll also have access to your account.
AliPay: AliPay is the official payment service for AliExpress, which Alibaba Group owns. It’s similar to PayPal, allowing users to manage payments and track orders, but it also comes with similar security risks.
Google Pay & Apple Pay: These digital wallets let users link their cards and store account details in one place. While they’re highly secure, losing your phone is still risky.

Instalments

In some regions, AliExpress offers the option to pay for items in instalments. This allows users to split the cost of their purchase into several smaller payments over time, typically with no interest charged.

As with all e-commerce platforms, split payments go through your chosen account. They can be safe, but you should always check before agreeing to split the costs.

Local payment methods

AliExpress also accepts payment methods from different regions, including iDeal for Netherlands customers and Sofort, which is popular throughout Europe. Again, the safety of each payment method depends on whether strict security measures are in place.

Virtual cards

Virtual cards are much safer than credit or debit cards, as they don’t link to your bank account. Instead, you’ll load a prepaid virtual card with money and can spend the balance on purchases. Once it’s empty, you’ll either reload the card or order a new one.

Potential Risks When Using AliExpress

While AliExpress offers several security features, there are risks associated with shopping on any online marketplace. Understanding the potential hazards and threats gives you a secure experience and can prevent fraud.

Counterfeit Products

AliExpress is a haven for third-party sellers, all of whom offer low-cost items. The platform’s reach makes it incredibly easy for unethical people to exploit buyers. Some might sell counterfeit products, while others could falsely advertise items.

If branded goods seem too good to be true, they probably are. After all, you’re not going to get a premium pair of Nike trainers for £5.00. Using some common sense means you can identify counterfeit goods.

Poor quality

AliExpress serves as an intermediary for manufacturers, sellers, and buyers. While it emphasizes a commitment to quality control, it is impossible to say if certain items will align with buyer expectations.

When it comes to buyer protection, AliExpress does offer refunds, but you could end up with poor-quality products. You’ll also have to go through a process to receive a refund.

Shipping delays

Shipping times on AliExpress can be unpredictable, especially when items are shipped from China to Europe. Some products arrive within a few weeks, but others might take several months to reach their destination.

These delays are often due to customs processing, long-distance shipping routes, or other logistical issues. It’s important to consider these potential delays when placing an order, especially if you need an item by a specific date.

Fees and import taxes

Depending on your country’s regulations, you may be required to pay customs fees or import taxes on items purchased from AliExpress. These additional costs can make what seemed like a great deal much less appealing.

Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to research your country’s import policies and factor in any potential fees or taxes.

Language barriers

Many buyers find communicating with AliExpress sellers challenging because of language barriers. The platform offers translation tools, but they’re not perfect and might lead to misunderstandings about certain products.

It’s always a good idea to read seller reviews before making a decision and ask the seller questions before making a purchase.

Reputability

While AliExpress hasn’t experienced a significant data breach, there was a close call when the platform had an issue with its open redirect (TrendMicro). The company fixed the problem, but it did highlight its potential vulnerability.

AliExpress was the first platform to face a significant EU investigation under the Digital Services Act (TechCrunch).

How to stay safe on AliExpress

Given the potential risks, it’s important to take proactive steps to ensure your transactions on AliExpress are safe. Here are some tips to help you shop securely:

Secure your AliExpress account

Use unique and strong passwords to protect your personal information and prevent hackers from accessing your account. The unique password should be different from all of your other accounts.

Remember to activate available safety features and never use public WiFi when shopping on online marketplaces.

Take your time

Before making a purchase, research the seller. Look for sellers with high ratings and positive feedback from previous buyers.

Pay close attention to the number of transactions they have completed and the length of time they have been active on AliExpress. Sellers with a long history of positive reviews are generally more reliable.

It’s also essential to read the descriptions properly to get an idea of product quality.

Don’t connect your bank account

Always use secure payment methods when shopping on AliExpress and avoid inputting sensitive information. Identity theft is avoidable with the right measures, including using virtual cards. For example, the Getsby Virtual Green Card is reloadable and uses various security features.

Your payment details are concealed with tokenisation, and you use Mastercard 3D Secure 2.0. If you choose other payment methods, make sure you activate two-factor authentication.

Track your purchases

Never buying something that seems too good to be true is a matter of common sense, but you’ll also need to research before making a decision. For example, checking shipping methods means you’ll know the delivery times.

Once you’ve made a purchase, keep track of your order’s progress through the AliExpress platform. Many sellers provide tracking numbers that allow you to monitor the shipment’s status. This can help you stay informed about potential delays and ensure your order arrives as expected.

Use Buyer Protection

Remember, if you encounter any issues with your order, always use the Buyer Protection Program–it’s there to offer support and help you secure a satisfactory resolution.

If the customer service team agrees you received a substandard product or service, they’ll issue a full or partial refund, depending on the circumstances.