When high-end graphics processing units (GPUs) are scarce, classified ads sprout overnight. Sites such as the reported ipromax shopfront look polished enough on day one. Payment is steered to a “guarantor” or escrow chat rather than a card processor you can charge back. The card never arrives; the seller vanishes; anyone who posts a warning may get abusive emails — a detail victims have described after paying four-figure sums in US dollars.
The pattern matters more than the brand of the week. Real marketplaces keep funds in their own escrow, show seller history you can audit, and do not need a stranger’s wallet as middleman. If the deal only works after you leave the platform and wire crypto or cash to a guarantor, assume the hardware is fiction.
Buy from retailers with delivery tracking and a returns policy. If you already paid an off-platform escrow, stop sending “release” fees, keep every message and receipt, and use the reporting routes on our help pages.
If this already cost you money, start at Get help.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal or financial advice. Details change. If you have lost money, contact your bank or card issuer and use the routes on the help pages.