Pattern library
The scam patterns every overseas buyer should know.
Fraudulent suppliers reuse the same behavioral playbooks. Recognize the signals early and you'll avoid the most common — and most expensive — sourcing mistakes.
Fake Factory Scam
A 'factory' that is actually a trading reseller — or doesn't exist at all.
Stock photos used as 'factory photos'Refuses live video tour of the production floor
Sample vs Bulk Quality Scam
Perfect samples, downgraded bulk production once payment clears.
Sample is unusually high quality for the quoted priceResistance to a 3rd-party pre-shipment inspection
Deposit Scam
Supplier disappears after the deposit lands — or asks for more before shipping.
Asks for payment to a personal bank accountPushes urgent payment with 'price will go up tomorrow'
Shipping Fraud
Fake tracking numbers, manipulated documents, or missing cargo.
Tracking number doesn't appear in the carrier's official systemBill of lading sent only as a low-resolution image