An urgent warning has been issued for owners of Android or iPhone devices, emphasizing the risks associated with using unofficial chargers. With most new devices now excluding chargers and only including a USB-C cable, consumers are faced with the inconvenience of purchasing a charger separately, typically costing at least £20.
The affordability of unofficial chargers, available for less than £8 on platforms like Amazon, may seem appealing to many consumers seeking cheaper alternatives. However, consumer advocacy group Which? has cautioned that these cheaper options could pose significant safety hazards.
Conducting investigations, Which? procured various chargers from online marketplaces such as Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. The tests conducted revealed alarming results, with nine chargers found to have the potential for electric shock due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion risks.
One particularly concerning discovery was a charger designed to resemble Apple’s USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and displaying Apple branding on its packaging. Despite its appearance, the product was found to be a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments.
Further examinations exposed chargers lacking mandatory UK safety markings and devices with hazardous internal circuitry that could lead to overheating, fires, or explosions. This highlights a recurring issue raised by Which? regarding the sale of unsafe electrical products on online platforms.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences that poorly designed electrical products can have, including life-altering outcomes. She urged the government to utilize new powers granted under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to bolster product safety regulations and establish clear obligations for online marketplaces, reinforced by stringent enforcement measures.
In response to the concerns raised, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety, mentioning its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company assured that all products sold on its platform adhere to relevant laws and regulations, and stated that the identified chargers had been removed. Amazon also highlighted its proactive approach to monitoring safety issues, recalling affected products, and contacting customers when necessary.
B&Q echoed these sentiments, underscoring its dedication to product safety and proactive measures to ensure recalled items are not available for sale on its Marketplace platform.
Consumers are advised to purchase chargers from authorized retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung to mitigate safety risks. Though these products may come at a higher price, experts caution that the potential dangers associated with cheaper alternatives outweigh any cost savings.
