“Attention Gamers: The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Caught in a New Scam Spotlight!”

The most recent and top-performing gaming processor, the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, has fallen prey to a new counterfeit chip scheme. With the new CPU frequently selling out, it was inevitable that fake versions would eventually infiltrate the supply network.

A fresh report from the Chinese hardware forum, Chiphell, indicates a return of a so-called AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D. Nevertheless, upon further investigation by the firm reviewing the premier gaming CPU, it was discovered to be a modified AMD Ryzen 7000-series chip, masquerading as a 9800X3D.

The return documentation outlines the customer’s grievance, alongside the analysis of the processor itself. Translated from Chinese into English, the document notes “clear irregularities,” apart from the fact that it’s a 7000-series CPU.

A critical hint is the variation in “components on the edge of the PCB.” Although the CPU cover has been switched out, the fraudsters cannot tamper with or modify the CPU substrate without risking total chip failure. More apparent is the dark green circuit board used for the chip, contrasting with the blue found on the Ryzen 9000 series.

This is not the first instance of the 9800X3D being involved in a scam. In November, a group of counterfeit 9800X3D processors were discovered in Amazon listings, exposed by the outlet GameGPU. These CPUs were absurdly underpriced, with the listings asserting they were compatible with the 1987 Amiga 500. However, this deception appears to be somewhat more intricate.

While many major retailers are generally reliable, it’s wise to remain cautious of platforms such as Amazon and eBay. Amazon, which warehouses and ships millions of items through various resellers, can occasionally allow a nefarious individual to pass through unnoticed. On a site like Amazon, nearly anyone has the opportunity to begin selling, which is how the earlier scam gained popularity.

AMD is also facing challenges in other areas of the industry. With outstanding processors and the forthcoming Z2 Extreme poised to enhance some of the finest handheld devices, it appears things are promising. However, the company is grappling with its next-generation GPUs, the Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT, with the RDNA 4 launch now postponed until March.