Can the 'about this mac' info be spoofed?

Hi,

I bought a used MacBook Pro 20012 a few years ago. Well, at least I think I did. The “about this mac” reflects the correct info (i7 2.9), but the stamped serial number says it’s a 2009 (core duo). I found a sticker on the inside with a serial number that reflects a 2012.

I can tell there were upgrades…battery/ram. Now I’m unsure what model I have.

I recently bought a new battery and SSD drive and was having problems installing the SSD so that’s why I started looking. My SSD problem might be the SATA cable based on the forum, but I wanted to make sure before I put anymore $$ in this that I have the right model.

Is there any other way to tell which model I really have. ie other places inside that have SN. The CPU isn’t readily visible.

I’m hoping the bottom was damaged and was replaced with an older model.