The Most Common Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti Scams on AliExpress to Avoid in 2026
Learn about the prevalent scams targeting Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti purchases on AliExpress in 2026. This guide details common fraudulent schemes to help you shop safely.
Navigating the Risks: Common Scams on AliExpress for High-Value GPUs
The allure of high-performance components like the Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti can attract sophisticated scams on platforms like AliExpress. While the platform offers competitive prices, it's crucial to be aware of the fraudulent schemes that target eager buyers. This guide focuses on the most relevant scams for this product in 2026.
Understanding Specific AliExpress Scams Targeting the RTX 5090 Ti
Fake Tracking Number Loophole: Sellers may provide a fake or reused tracking number, often claiming the item is delivered when it has not been. AliExpress may side with the seller if the tracking shows 'delivered', making recovery difficult.
Unrealistically Low 'Choice' Prices: Listings featuring significantly lower prices than the market average, especially those marked as 'Choice,' are often bait. The actual product may be a drastically different, lower-quality item, or the price may only reflect a small accessory rather than the GPU itself.
Bait-and-Switch Quality: Similar to low-price scams, sellers might advertise a genuine RTX 5090 Ti but ship a heavily modified card with the GPU core and VRAM removed, or a completely different, inferior product.
Shipping Extortion via Message: After a purchase, a seller might contact you outside the platform (e.g., via WhatsApp) demanding additional payment for shipping or import duties, which is against platform policy.
The 'Confirm Receipt' Trick: Sellers may pressure buyers to confirm receipt of the item prematurely, even before it has arrived or been fully inspected. Confirming receipt can significantly limit your ability to open a dispute or claim a refund if issues arise later.
Brushing (Fake Review) Padding: While less direct for high-value items, sellers might use brushing to inflate the overall reputation of their store. You might receive an unsolicited, low-value item from the seller to generate a 'verified' review, even if you didn't actually receive your intended purchase.
Protecting Your Investment: Recommended Safety Measures
- ✓ Verify Seller Reputation: Always check seller ratings, reviews, and the length of time they've been active on AliExpress. Look for established sellers with a history of positive feedback, especially for high-value items.
- ✓ Scrutinize Pricing: Be highly suspicious of prices that are significantly lower than the MSRP or current market value. The Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti is a premium card, and deals that seem too good to be true usually are.
- ✓ Use Secure Payment Methods: Opt for payment methods that offer buyer protection. For high-value P2P transactions, consider using Safe Trade Services. For purchases on AliExpress, ensure you are using the platform's integrated payment system.
- ✓ Document Everything: Take screenshots of product listings, seller communications, order confirmations, and tracking information. This evidence is crucial if a dispute arises.
- ✓ Be Wary of Off-Platform Communication: Never agree to communicate or make payments outside of the AliExpress platform, as this voids buyer protection.
- ✓ Understand Shipping and Tracking: Pay close attention to tracking information. If a tracking number seems invalid, doesn't update, or shows delivery to an incorrect address, immediately open a dispute.
- ✓ Avoid Premature Confirmation: Do not click 'Confirm Receipt' until you have physically received the item and verified it matches the description and is in working order.
For high-value items like the Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti, it is highly recommended to utilize a secure identity verification service for peer-to-peer transactions. Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan offers an additional layer of security, ensuring both buyer and seller are protected throughout the transaction.
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