Bogus DDR5 RAM Scams Surface: Old Modules Sold as New Amid Shortages

The Deceptive Deception: DDR5 RAM Scams Surface Amidst Shortages

In a landscape currently beleaguered by supply chain disruptions and escalating prices for PC components, a cunning new form of fraud has emerged. Consumers seeking the latest in high-speed computing power, specifically DDR5 RAM, are finding themselves ensnared in a deceptive scheme where what appears to be a brand-new, premium product is, in reality, outdated DDR or even DDR2 memory. This unsettling revelation, brought to light by a reader of Videocardz, marks the first documented instance of this particular scam targeting eager buyers.

A Case of Counterfeit Components

The incident unfolded when a user, identified as BravoNorris, purchased four sets of XPG Caster 32GB (2x16GB) DDR5-6000 CL40 RAM from Amazon Spain. While three of the packages arrived promptly, the fourth followed a few days later, with all shipments originating from Ireland according to tracking information. Initially, the situation seemed innocuous; one kit was resold, and another was successfully integrated into a system without a hitch. The troubling discovery occurred upon opening the third package during a new PC build. The box, sealed with shrink wrap and appearing entirely legitimate, concealed a shocking secret: two archaic DDR or DDR2 modules. To further the deception, these outdated chips were adorned with stickers meticulously mimicking the heat spreader markings of DDR5 modules. A metallic plate was also included, presumably to replicate the authentic weight of a genuine DDR5 kit.

BravoNorris observed that the counterfeit stickers, when viewed from a distance through the packaging's window, could easily fool an unsuspecting buyer. However, upon closer inspection, the print quality betrayed the ruse, appearing dubious. The unopened fourth kit was kept aside for comparison, a crucial step in documenting the stark contrast between authentic packaging and the fraudulent replica.

The Likely Culprit: A Return Fraud Ruse

The most plausible explanation for this elaborate deception points towards return fraud. It's highly probable that an unscrupulous individual swapped the genuine DDR5 modules for older, less valuable DDR or DDR2 memory. They then resealed the box, making it appear untouched, and returned the tampered product for a full refund. Subsequently, the seller – likely unaware or complicit – relisted this “new” item, perpetuating the cycle of deception.

BravoNorris has initiated a return request, though the outcome and whether Amazon will approve a refund remain uncertain. In such precarious situations, industry experts universally advise documenting the unboxing process meticulously. Recording the entire process, from the intact seals and shrink wrap to the visible serial numbers, can serve as invaluable evidence in disputes over refunds. While banks may not always accept such recordings as definitive proof, they can bolster a claim, especially when a direct refund from the seller is denied. In those instances, initiating a chargeback through the buyer's bank might be the only recourse.

Manufacturer's Response and Consumer Vigilance

Videocardz reached out to ADATA, the manufacturer of XPG, for their perspective and to inquire about any prior knowledge of similar incidents and methods for verifying product authenticity. ADATA emphasized the importance of purchasing their products exclusively through official, authorized partners and distributors. To combat counterfeiting, they provide a dedicated section on their website offering guidance on identifying fake products. The company also pledged to enhance user awareness through official communication channels and to intensify its monitoring of unauthorized marketplaces.

This alarming case serves as a stark reminder that even sealed packaging from major online retailers offers no absolute guarantee of authenticity for expensive computer components. The digital marketplace, while convenient, can unfortunately be a breeding ground for such sophisticated scams. Therefore, when purchasing RAM, SSDs, or any other critical PC hardware, a thorough inspection of the contents immediately upon receipt is paramount. And as BravoNorris’s experience tragically illustrates, a video recording of the unboxing can be your most potent ally against fraud.