Some Costco shoppers have noticed that computers are being displayed without memory (RAM) installed. This is reportedly due to increasing worries about theft, as computer prices have been going up.
In December 2025, experts predicted that the increasing demand for artificial intelligence would continue to cause a shortage of RAM storage for the foreseeable future.
We’re starting to see how this is affecting the PC, smartphone, and soon, likely the gaming console markets. And as prices go up, there’s another problem emerging.
There’s been a rise in RAM thefts recently, and it seems Costco is responding by taking the memory out of their displayed computers.
Costco has reportedly begun removing RAM from its display PCs
The conversation started on Reddit when someone posted pictures of pre-built computers that were missing RAM – the memory hadn’t been installed.
Although shoplifting has always been an issue, many people online have noticed an increase in reports of RAM being stolen. Some also wondered if the RAM in the photos was actually missing before the images were taken.
So, I was reading the comments, and one person actually had a pretty wild story. They said they were at Costco just a few days before and someone straight-up stole RAM right out of one of the display PCs! It’s crazy to think that’s actually happening in stores.
The user reported the theft was recorded on video. They also noted the suspect seemed to be an Instacart delivery person, which would explain how they entered Costco without a membership.
Many customers weren’t surprised to see pre-built computers offered without memory (RAM). It reminded some of the difficulties finding graphics cards during the 2021 GPU shortage.
During that period, some stores even took the extreme step of removing GPUs altogether to prevent thieves from stealing them from showcased products.
One person mentioned that in their hometown, some stores would show an empty display case with a note listing the computer’s specifications.
Another user explained that this policy is in place for safety reasons, and it’s up to each manager to decide if a particular situation poses a risk. Any remaining items are then stored securely in the warehouse.
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2026-01-29 07:48