The Most Common Scams Targeting Intel Arc A980 Purchases on Newegg in 2026
Navigating the Newegg marketplace for an Intel Arc A980 requires vigilance against common scams. This guide details prevalent fraudulent tactics to help you make a secure purchase in 2026.
Beware of These Scams When Buying an Intel Arc A980 on Newegg
The Intel Arc A980, while a capable graphics card, can unfortunately be a target for various scams on online marketplaces like Newegg. Understanding these common fraudulent schemes is the first step in protecting yourself from financial loss and receiving a faulty or misrepresented product.
Scams Specific to Graphics Cards on Newegg
Fake Listings & Counterfeit Products: Be extremely cautious of listings that seem too good to be true. Scammers may create fake listings for the Intel Arc A980 with significantly lower prices than market value. These often lead to receiving a counterfeit GPU, a significantly older or lower-tier model misrepresented as the A980, or even an empty box. Some sellers have been known to relabel older GPU modules to appear as newer, more powerful cards. Always check seller ratings and reviews meticulously.
Bait-and-Switch Tactics: This scam involves advertising a genuine product (like the Intel Arc A980) at an attractive price to draw you in. Once you commit to the purchase, the seller may claim the item is out of stock and offer a less desirable, more expensive alternative, or even switch the product during shipping. This tactic has been observed in Newegg's trade-in program as well, where advertised values can be arbitrarily rejected.
Used-as-New or Refurbished-as-New: Sellers may attempt to pass off used or refurbished Intel Arc A980 units as brand new. This can happen with individual sellers or even through larger operations that may not adequately test or disclose the condition of returned items. Be wary of products with damaged packaging or signs of prior use that are not clearly marked as refurbished.
Third-Party Shipping Fraud: While Newegg has its own shipping protocols, some third-party sellers on the platform may use fraudulent shipping practices. This can involve providing fake tracking numbers, using a non-traceable shipping method, or delaying shipments significantly to avoid fulfilling orders. Always confirm the shipping details and seller's reputation before completing a purchase.
Phishing Attempts via Email or Messages: Scammers might impersonate Newegg support to solicit personal information or login credentials. They may send fake emails about order verification, 'EggPoints' rewards, or special promotions, directing you to fraudulent websites. Never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive information outside of Newegg's secure platform.
How to Protect Yourself When Buying an Intel Arc A980
- ✓ Thoroughly vet sellers: Examine seller ratings, read reviews, and check for any red flags before purchasing. Prioritize sellers with a long history of positive feedback.
- ✓ Compare prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Cross-reference prices with other reputable retailers.
- ✓ Understand return policies: Familiarize yourself with Newegg's return policy and the specific seller's policy before buying.
- ✓ Use secure payment methods: Always use Newegg's integrated payment system. Avoid direct payment requests outside the platform.
- ✓ Inspect upon arrival: Carefully inspect the Intel Arc A980 and its packaging upon delivery. If anything seems amiss, document it with photos or videos and contact Newegg support immediately.
For high-value transactions, especially for components like the Intel Arc A980 which can exceed $500, consider utilizing Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for an added layer of identity verification and secure transaction processing. For lower-value purchases or added peace of mind, the Basic Plan can also provide significant security benefits.
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