Chinese customs authorities at the Gongbei Port, a crucial connection between Macau and Zhuhai, successfully intercepted a smuggling operation involving 780 Intel processors.

In the highlighted case, the smugglers opted to hide the Intel CPUs within the engine compartment of a cross-border bus. The challenge of bypassing metal detectors with substantial metal contents on one's body is evident, as metal detectors can easily detect such contraband. Yet, hiding metal inside larger metal structures can sometimes be successful, assuming no manual inspections occur.

The Gongbei Port's customs officers, utilizing digital imagery, identified inconsistencies with a cross-border vehicle. A detailed inspection of the bus's engine compartment unveiled modifications meant to hide the processors. These Intel CPUs, when evaluated, presented a market value of over one million yuan, or roughly $137,341. Preliminary identification suggests the CPUs are either from the 12th Generation Alder Lake or the 13th Generation Raptor Lake series.

China's grey market is a prominent platform for computer hardware aficionados. Many are drawn to processors, graphics cards, and SSDs due to their lower prices in comparison to mainstream retail outlets. Yet, it's important to note that products sourced from the grey market usually do not come with manufacturer warranties. The potential savings might seem attractive initially, but the lack of warranty might result in additional expenses should the hardware fail.

Interception of 780 Intel CPUs at Gongbei Port Sheds Light on Hardware Smuggling Techniques