June 10, 2026, 6:46 am | Read time: 4 minutes

The growing threat is also linked to the current market situation. SSDs have recently become more expensive, especially models with high storage capacity. This makes supposed bargains particularly tempting. However, this is exactly where counterfeits can become a problem.

A supposed Samsung 990 Pro turns out to be a fake

As reported by “Heise,” an alleged Samsung 990 Pro with 4 terabytes of storage capacity was examined, which was purchased from Mindfactory. Initially, everything pointed to an original after unpacking. The circuit board was black, the label listed Samsung as the manufacturer and 990 Pro as the model name. The serial number also matched the information on the packaging.

Only a closer inspection revealed the differences. Under the sticker, the expected Samsung technology was not present. This showed how convincingly such imitations can now be designed.

Differences appear on the circuit board

Comparison with a genuine 990 SSD revealed several discrepancies. For instance, the service pins were in a different position. The number of installed components also did not match the original.

Additionally, there were slight differences in the sticker on the back. While the size and design were similar, they did not fully match the older original. Particularly noticeable was an identifier at the bottom left of the circuit board. This points to a different controller design and does not match the specified Samsung technology.

However, a purely visual inspection is not always sufficient. The examined drive still identified itself in the system as a Samsung 990 Pro. Those who only look at the information in Windows or simple diagnostic programs may not recognize the counterfeit.

The reason: Such displays primarily rely on the identifier that the SSD itself transmits. As a result, a counterfeit drive can appear as a regular branded product even after installation.

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How to detect SSD counterfeits

Special diagnostic programs are suitable for an authenticity check. They examine the hardware more closely and can provide clues if the reported model designation does not match the actual technology.

For Samsung SSDs, Magician is recommended. The software comes directly from the manufacturer and confirms original Samsung drives. In the examined case, this confirmation was missing, indicating a counterfeit.

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CrystalDiskInfo can also help. The independent program now also detects corresponding anomalies and marks suspicious drives directly in the model designation.

Samsung recommends authorized dealers

Samsung has commented on the discovered counterfeits to the colleagues at COMPUTER BILD. The company stated via email:

“Samsung takes such reports of counterfeit storage products very seriously. We consistently take action against the distribution of such counterfeits. We recommend purchasing Samsung storage media exclusively through the Samsung Online Shop or authorized dealers. Consumers can also use the Samsung Magician Software to verify if their product is genuine.

We are grateful for tips from the market and consumers to quickly identify and track such cases. In cases of suspicion, users and partners can contact the Samsung Product Service.”

Therefore, a critical look at the offer is worthwhile even before purchase. Information about the dealer, the imprint, and the general design of an online shop can provide important clues. Unusually low prices should also raise suspicion. Although this precautionary measure probably would not have helped in the described case at Mindfactory, it can help identify counterfeits early in many dubious offers.