AMD X3D CPU Scam #amd #x3d #9800x3d #gaming #scam #cpu @3DGAMEMAN
243dGameMan T-Shirts:
Join our community: https://www.PATREON.com/3dGameMan
Tip Jar: https://paypal.me/3dGameMan
Channel Perks:
Thanks for liking, sharing, subscribing & hitting that notification bell :)
Have a Question?: • Ask Me a Question
Other relevant links:
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/3dGameMan
Steam: https://steamcommunity.com/id/3dGameMan
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@3dGameMan
My Podcast: • Podcasts (Gaming, Tech...)
Source: https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/cpus/fake-ryzen-7-9800x3d-bought-from-amazon-was-actually-an-old-amd-fx-chip-disguised-by-ihs-sticker
It's definitely concerning to hear about counterfeit CPUs making their way into the hands of even experienced tech reviewers! Here's a breakdown of the situation with the fake AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with some added detail to make it engaging:
The Counterfeit CPU Incident
Victim:
Hardware Busters, a well-known hardware review site, had a run-in with a fake AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D. Aris Mpitziopoulos, the head of Hardware Busters, was the one who received the counterfeit CPU.
Source:
The CPU was purchased as "new" directly from Amazon.de, not from a third-party seller. This is a crucial point, as it shows that even buying from a reputable source like Amazon doesn't guarantee authenticity.
Packaging:
The retail box looked convincing enough, potentially even being genuine AMD packaging. This highlights the sophistication of counterfeiters.
Discovery:
Aris received the CPU on March 4th but only unboxed it on March 9th due to a busy schedule. This demonstrates that even tech experts can be caught off guard.
The Fake Revealed:
Upon opening the box, the CPU was immediately identified as a fake.
Visual Differences:
The fake 9800X3D had a different heat spreader (IHS) design compared to a genuine Ryzen 9000 series CPU. AMD Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series CPUs have an "octopus" shaped IHS.
The fake CPU had pins on the bottom, while AMD Ryzen CPUs for the AM5 socket use pads. This difference is critical, as attempting to install a pin-based CPU in an AM5 socket could severely damage the motherboard.
The Deception Deepens:
The heat spreader was peeled off to reveal an even older CPU underneath: an AMD FX-4100, a CPU based on the older Bulldozer architecture from 2011. This illustrates the level of effort counterfeiters go to in their deception.
Consequences:
Hardware Busters now has to deal with the time and inconvenience of returning the fake CPU and getting a refund.
Aris anticipates it will take around three weeks to receive the refund.
Why This Is Important
Prevalence of Fakes:
This incident underscores the increasing prevalence of counterfeit tech products, including CPUs.
Consumers need to be vigilant, even when buying from well-known retailers.
Potential for Damage:
Installing a fake CPU with pins in an AM5 socket can cause irreparable damage to expensive motherboards, leading to significant financial loss.
Consumer Awareness:
It's crucial for consumers to be aware of the potential for counterfeit products and to know how to identify them.
Tips for Avoiding Counterfeit CPUs
Buy from Authorized Retailers:
While this case shows that even buying from Amazon directly isn't foolproof, sticking to authorized retailers and official stores is generally safer.
Inspect Packaging Carefully:
Look for signs of tampering, damage, or inconsistencies in the packaging.
Verify CPU Markings:
Check the CPU markings against official specifications on the manufacturer's website.
Be Wary of Unusually Low Prices:
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeiters often use low prices to lure in unsuspecting buyers.
Check CPU Appearance:
Pay attention to the heat spreader design and the presence of pins or pads on the bottom of the CPU.
Test the CPU Immediately:
If possible, test the CPU as soon as you receive it to ensure it functions correctly and matches the advertised specifications.
This incident serves as a stark reminder that vigilance is essential when purchasing PC hardware. By being aware of the risks and taking precautions, consumers can minimize their chances of falling victim to counterfeiters.