An urgent warning has been issued to individuals using Android or iPhone devices, emphasizing the importance of not overlooking it. The alert stems from concerns surrounding the use of unofficial power packs for charging batteries. Nowadays, most new devices are shipped with only a USB-C cable, excluding a charger in the package. This situation often necessitates a visit to a store and an expense of at least £20 to purchase a proper adapter.
The cost factor may lead many consumers to seek more affordable options. Unofficial chargers are readily available on online platforms like Amazon for under £8—significantly less than the prices set by manufacturers such as Apple or Samsung. Nevertheless, the consumer advocacy group Which? is cautioning against these budget-friendly purchases due to potential safety hazards.
Undertaking an investigation, Which? procured various chargers from online marketplaces including Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. The results of the testing were alarming: nine chargers were identified as posing a risk of electric shock due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were deemed potential fire or explosion risks.
Among the findings was a plug that strikingly resembled an Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and featuring packaging adorned with Apple branding. Despite its appearance, the product turned out to be a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments, as uncovered by Which? The examination further revealed chargers lacking essential UK safety markings and devices with internal circuitry designs that could heighten the chances of overheating, fire outbreaks, or explosions.
This is not the first instance where Which? has expressed concerns about unsafe electrical products being sold on online marketplaces.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences poorly designed electrical products can have, including life-altering and potentially fatal outcomes. She highlighted that online marketplaces have long been aware of the dangers posed by counterfeit chargers but continue to expose consumers to risky products.
Davies urged the government to utilize new powers granted by the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to bolster product safety regulations and establish clear legal responsibilities for online marketplaces, supported by robust enforcement mechanisms.
In response, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety, citing its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company affirmed that all products on its platform must comply with relevant laws and regulations and stated that the chargers flagged by Which? had been removed. Amazon assured proactive monitoring for safety issues, recalling affected products, and contacting customers when necessary.
Similarly, B&Q echoed these commitments, asserting its dedication to product safety and proactive measures to ensure that recalled items are not available for sale on its Marketplace platform.
For consumers, the advice is straightforward: opt for chargers from official retailers or trusted brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these products may come at a higher initial cost, experts caution that the safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any potential savings.