How to Safely Buy a PlayStation 6 on AliExpress in 2026

Your Essential Safety Guide to Buying a PlayStation 6 on AliExpress (2026)

The PlayStation 6 (PS6) is anticipated to launch around 2026 or later, and like previous console releases, demand will likely be high. As you prepare to secure yours on AliExpress, it's crucial to be aware of potential pitfalls. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make a secure purchase and avoid common fraudulent practices.

Understanding the Risks: Scams to Watch Out For

• ✓ Unrealistically Low 'Choice' Prices: Be extremely wary of listings offering the PS6 at a price significantly lower than market value. This is often a lure for scams, where the product received is either non-existent, a counterfeit, or drastically different from what was advertised.
• ✓ Fake Tracking Number Loophole: Scammers may provide a seemingly valid tracking number that either never updates, shows a false delivery, or leads to a different, low-value item being delivered. Always cross-reference tracking information and be skeptical of tracking numbers that appear quickly without substantial origin details.
• ✓ The 'Confirm Receipt' Trick: Sellers might pressure buyers to confirm receipt of the item before it has actually arrived or been fully inspected. Confirming receipt prematurely can waive your buyer protection, making it difficult to get a refund if issues arise.
• ✓ Bait-and-Switch Quality: You might see a listing with a high-quality image or description, but upon arrival, the product is of inferior quality, a refurbished unit, or not the exact model advertised. Always check seller reviews and look for 'real photos' provided by other buyers.
• ✓ Shipping Extortion via Message: Some sellers might contact you after purchase, demanding additional payment for shipping or 'customs clearance' through unofficial channels, threatening to cancel the order if you don't comply. All shipping and payment details should be handled within the AliExpress platform.
• ✓ Customs Clearance Phishing: Be cautious of unsolicited messages claiming to be from shipping carriers or customs, requesting personal information or payment to clear your PS6. Always verify the legitimacy of such communications directly with the carrier.
• ✓ The 'Refund to PayPal' Trap: A variation of the off-platform scam, where a seller might ask you to close a dispute on AliExpress in exchange for a refund via PayPal. Once the dispute is closed, they may disappear or refuse to send the refund.

Verifying Sellers and Product Authenticity

Before making any purchase, especially for a high-value item like a PlayStation 6, thorough seller verification is paramount. Look for sellers with a long store age (ideally over 2 years), a high positive feedback score (above 95%), and a history of selling electronics. Read recent reviews, paying close attention to any negative feedback related to product authenticity or delivery issues. For high-value P2P transactions, consider using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for identity verification, adding an extra layer of security.

Leveraging AliExpress Buyer Protection

AliExpress offers a Buyer Protection program that holds your payment in identity verification until you confirm receipt of the item or the protection period expires. Familiarize yourself with the protection period for your order and extend it if necessary, especially if delivery is delayed. If you encounter any issues—such as the item not arriving, being damaged, or not matching the description—open a dispute within the allotted timeframe. Document everything with screenshots of messages, tracking information, and the product listing. For items valued under $500, the standard AliExpress Buyer Protection is generally sufficient, but for high-value purchases, the Safe Trade Services Basic Plan can offer additional peace of mind.

By remaining vigilant and employing these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams when purchasing your PlayStation 6 on AliExpress. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it often is.