7 Warning Signs You're Being Scammed on Telegram While Buying a Nvidia RTX 5090 Ti

The Fake Middleman Scam: Scammers may pose as trusted intermediaries or 'identity verification' services to facilitate a transaction. They often request payment in cryptocurrency (like USDT) which is difficult to reverse, and refuse to share personal social media to maintain anonymity. Be wary of any 'middleman' who isn't a widely recognized and verified service.

Malware via File 'Proof': Sellers might send seemingly legitimate 'proof' of the RTX 5090 Ti, such as benchmark videos or photos. However, these files can be booby-trapped with malware designed to steal your personal information or compromise your device. Always be suspicious of unsolicited files, especially from unknown sources.

Impersonation of Admin/Staff: Scammers can create fake accounts that mimic official Telegram support or administrators of reputable trading groups. They may claim there's an issue with your account or transaction and ask for sensitive details or additional payments to 'resolve' it. Always verify the identity of any 'admin' through official channels.

The 'identity verification' Channel Trap: Be extremely cautious of unofficial 'identity verification' channels on Telegram. Many are scams designed to take your money without delivering the product. Legitimate identity verification services typically have robust verification processes and do not operate solely through private Telegram chats.

Phishing via 'Official' Bot: Scammers can create bots that impersonate official support or verification services. They might ask you to 'verify your identity' by running a code on your device or clicking a suspicious link, which can lead to malware infection or credential theft. Never trust bots that request sensitive information or ask you to execute unknown commands.

Unusually Low Prices: While tempting, prices significantly below market value for an RTX 5090 Ti (which can range from $1999 MSRP to over $4500 in early 2026 due to shortages) are a major red flag. Scammers use these unbelievable deals to lure victims. Always cross-reference prices with reputable retailers and market trackers.

Pressure Tactics and Urgency: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, pushing you to make a quick decision or payment before you can thoroughly vet the seller or deal. Phrases like 'limited stock,' 'flash sale,' or 'act now' are common. Take your time and don't be rushed.