It seems that the high prices of DDR5 memory are no longer the only challenge facing computer users, as counterfeit RAM units have begun to spread in the markets, some of which rely on plastic components to simulate real memory chips in order to deceive buyers.
According to reports issued by computer markets in Asia, counterfeit DDR5 modules are currently spreading through electronic stores and unofficial markets, taking advantage of the significant rise in memory prices during the recent period.
These products appear as almost identical copies of the original units issued by companies such as “Samsung” and “SK Hynix”, where stickers, serial numbers and packaging are used that are very similar to the real copies, according to what was reported by the “digitaltrends” website.
It is noteworthy that some SO-DIMM modules designated for laptops were discovered to contain plastic parts that mimic the shape of DRAM chips, in an attempt to give the impression that they are original components upon quick inspection.
The report also indicated that a number of these units are displayed on platforms such as “Yahoo Japan” as scrap or untested products, with warnings from sellers not to accept returns.
In several cases, these memories did not work at all, while others worked at capacities much lower than the announced specifications, which reveals clear performance tampering.
Some units have also been found to contain old, low-quality or recycled chipsets, hidden under counterfeit branded heatsinks.
Experts attribute this spread to the sharp rise in DDR5 prices over the past year, as a result of the increasing demand for artificial intelligence applications, in addition to the trend of manufacturers towards producing dedicated memories for servers and artificial intelligence accelerators instead of the consumer market.
Although advanced users may be able to spot some suspicious indicators such as board quality, chipset arrangement, or label errors, distinguishing between the original and the fake has become more difficult for the average user, especially with modern designs that completely hide the components behind large heat sinks.
The report warns that the phenomenon is no longer just a simple, low-quality imitation, but has turned into elaborate counterfeiting operations that may not be discovered until malfunctions or collapses occur in the system.
