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Costco reportedly removing RAM from display PCs amid theft concerns - Dexerto

According to some shoppers, Costco has been displaying PCs without RAM installed.

www.dexerto.com

Costco is reportedly removing RAM from display PCs as a preventative measure against rising component theft driven by ongoing RAM shortages and escalating prices.

Summary

• Reports from shoppers indicate that Costco has begun displaying pre-built PCs without RAM installed, leaving memory slots empty.
• This practice is allegedly a response to increased theft of RAM, which has become more valuable due to persistent shortages and price increases.
• The broader context includes sustained RAM and storage shortages since late 2025, largely attributed to surging AI-related demand.
• These shortages are already affecting multiple markets, including PCs, smartphones, and potentially gaming consoles.
• The issue gained attention through a Reddit thread where users shared images of Costco display PCs lacking RAM.
• Reddit commenters debated whether the missing RAM was intentionally removed or stolen, with some initially questioning the authenticity of the images.
• One commenter claimed firsthand knowledge of a recent RAM theft at a Costco location, stating the incident was caught on camera.
• According to this account, the suspected thief appeared to be an Instacart shopper, who could enter the store without a Costco membership.
• Many users expressed little surprise, drawing parallels to the 2021 GPU shortage when some retailers removed GPUs entirely from display systems to deter theft.
• Additional commenters noted that displaying incomplete systems or even empty cases with spec sheets is a known loss-prevention tactic.
• It was suggested that such decisions are made at the discretion of individual store managers based on perceived risk.
• Any removed RAM is reportedly stored securely in the warehouse rather than left in display units.
• The situation reflects how component scarcity and rising costs are influencing retail practices and in-store security measures.