How to Safely Buy an Intel Arc A980 on Newegg in 2026

Your Guide to Safely Purchasing an Intel Arc A980 on Newegg

The Intel Arc A980 is a sought-after graphics card, and Newegg is a popular marketplace for such components. However, like any online marketplace, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make a safe purchase.

Understanding Potential Scams

While Newegg has buyer protection policies, third-party sellers can sometimes engage in fraudulent activities. Be aware of the following scams that could be relevant when purchasing a high-value item like the Intel Arc A980:

• ✓ Fake RTX 5090 Listing: While not directly an Intel Arc A980, this scam highlights how sellers might list highly desirable, but often fake or non-existent, products at attractive prices to lure in unsuspecting buyers. Always verify the product details and seller reputation.
• ✓ Empty GPU Shroud: This is a particularly insidious scam where a seller ships only the empty packaging of a GPU, or a significantly devalued component, while claiming to have sent the full product. Always be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
• ✓ Third-Party Shipping Fraud: Sellers may use fraudulent shipping information or claim a package was delivered when it was not. This can leave you without the product and without a refund. Scrutinize seller shipping practices and consider using a secure payment method.
• ✓ Bait-and-Switch PSU: Similar to the empty GPU shroud, this scam involves advertising a desirable product but shipping a significantly inferior or unrelated item. Always confirm the exact product specifications before purchase.
• ✓ Phishing 'EggPoints' Email: Be wary of emails that mimic Newegg communications, especially those asking for account details or offering suspicious 'EggPoints' rewards. These are often phishing attempts to steal your login credentials or financial information.

Key Steps to a Secure Purchase

• ✓ Verify Seller Reputation: Always check a seller's rating, read reviews, and look for established sellers with a history of positive transactions on Newegg.
• ✓ Scrutinize Product Listings: Carefully examine product descriptions, images, and specifications. Look for inconsistencies or vague details that might indicate a fraudulent listing.
• ✓ Understand Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with Newegg's return policy and the specific seller's return policy. Ensure you can return the item if it's not as described or arrives damaged.
• ✓ Use Secure Payment Methods: Utilize secure payment options offered by Newegg. Avoid direct payment methods outside of the platform, as these offer less protection.
• ✓ Consider Safe Trade Services for P2P Transactions: If engaging in a peer-to-peer (P2P) transaction facilitated through Newegg, strongly consider using Safe Trade Services for an added layer of security. For a high-value item like the Intel Arc A980, the 'Premium Plan' offers comprehensive identity verification and transaction monitoring.

By following these guidelines and remaining vigilant, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams and ensure a safe and satisfactory purchase of your Intel Arc A980 on Newegg.