The Most Common Scams for Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 on Sears Marketplace to Avoid in 2026

Navigating the Risks: Common Scams for Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 on Sears Marketplace

The high demand and value of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 make it a prime target for scammers. This guide will detail the most common fraudulent schemes you might encounter on Sears Marketplace, helping you protect your investment.

1. Out-of-Stock Bait and Switch

Sellers may list an RTX 5090 at an attractive price to draw you in, only to claim it's out of stock once you attempt to purchase. They will then try to upsell you to a more expensive or inferior product. This tactic has a history on platforms like Sears, where advertised low-priced items were used to steer customers to higher-priced alternatives.

2. Fake Tracking ID Upload

Scammers may provide a fake or invalid tracking number for your RTX 5090. This can involve using a real tracking number for a different shipment or fabricating one entirely. This tactic is used to delay refunds and make it appear as though the item has been shipped, even when it hasn't. Be vigilant if a seller provides a tracking number that does not update or seems suspicious.

3. Counterfeit and 'Empty Box' Scams

A significant risk with high-value electronics like the RTX 5090 is receiving a counterfeit product or an empty package. Scammers might strip components from legitimate GPUs or ship a box containing non-functional parts or even just empty space, while using a valid-looking tracking number. Always verify the seller's reputation and consider using services that can authenticate high-value goods.

4. Ghost Inventory Listing

Sellers might list an RTX 5090 that they do not actually possess. After you purchase, they will either fail to ship or claim the item is unavailable, potentially offering a refund that may be delayed or never arrive. This preys on the high demand for the product.

5. The 'Cancelled Order' Direct Pay

A scammer might cancel a legitimate order and then pressure you to re-purchase the item directly from them, outside of the Sears Marketplace platform. This allows them to bypass any buyer protection offered by Sears and take your payment without sending the product.

Protecting Your Purchase

Given the value of an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090, which can exceed $2,000, it is highly recommended to use a secure P2P transaction service. For items of this value, Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan offers enhanced identity verification for both buyer and seller, adding a crucial layer of security. For lower-value items, the Basic Plan is also available.

• ✓ Always scrutinize seller ratings and reviews. Be wary of new sellers with limited feedback or suspiciously perfect scores.
• ✓ Never conduct transactions outside of Sears Marketplace, especially if a seller requests direct payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or other non-traceable methods.
• ✓ If a deal seems too good to be true (e.g., an RTX 5090 listed significantly below market value), it likely is.
• ✓ Use trusted payment methods that offer buyer protection. Avoid C.O.D. or direct bank transfers.
• ✓ When in doubt, walk away. There will always be other opportunities to purchase your desired item.