GPU Scam: RTX 3090 Resold as Fake RTX 4090 with Forged Label

News Overview

Scammers are relabeling and reselling older RTX 3090 GPUs as the significantly more powerful RTX 4090.
The fraudulent GPUs feature fake AD102 labels and evidence of relapping, indicating tampering.
This scam highlights the risks of purchasing GPUs from unverified sellers.

The core of the scam involves physically altering an RTX 3090 GPU to resemble an RTX 4090. This includes replacing the original label with a fake AD102 label, which signifies the chip used in the 4090.
“Relapping” refers to the process of resurfacing the GPU’s Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS). This is done to remove the original markings and prepare the surface for the fake labeling. Evidence of relapping is a key indicator of tampering.
The RTX 3090 and RTX 4090 are vastly different GPUs. The 4090 utilizes the newer Ada Lovelace architecture, offering significantly higher performance compared to the 3090’s Ampere architecture.
This scam exploits the visual similarity between the cards and the technical complexity that average consumers may not fully understand.
The article highlights the importance of scrutinizing GPU purchases, particularly from unfamiliar online marketplaces or individual sellers.

This scam poses a significant threat to consumers, particularly those unfamiliar with GPU specifications. It underscores the need for greater vigilance in the second-hand market.
The ability to successfully forge labels and relap GPUs demonstrates the sophistication of these scammers, and the risks of purchasing high value electronics from unverified sources.
This incident could erode consumer trust in online marketplaces and peer-to-peer sales platforms.
Manufacturers and retailers should reinforce consumer awareness about product verification and the dangers of fraudulent products.
The implications of this scam extend beyond GPUs, highlighting the potential for similar fraudulent activities with other high-value electronic components.