An urgent warning has been issued to individuals owning Android or iPhone devices, emphasizing the critical nature of the alert. The latest advisory stems from ongoing apprehensions regarding the use of unofficial power adapters for charging batteries. With the trend of new devices being supplied solely with a USB-C cable, omitting the charger from the package, users may find themselves needing to purchase a proper adapter, typically priced at a minimum of £20.
The cost factor often leads consumers to seek more affordable options. Unofficial chargers, available on platforms like Amazon for under £8—less than half the cost of those directly from manufacturers like Apple or Samsung—may seem appealing. However, consumer advocacy group Which? cautions that opting for these cheaper alternatives could expose users to significant safety hazards.
Conducting an investigation, Which? procured a variety of chargers from online marketplaces such as Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. Test results unveiled alarming findings: nine chargers posed electric shock risks due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion threats.
One charger notably resembled an Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and even featuring Apple’s branding on its packaging. Despite its appearance, Which? confirmed the product as a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed chargers lacking mandatory UK safety markings, along with devices incorporating dangerously designed internal circuitry, heightening the chances of overheating, fire, or explosion occurrences.
This is not the first instance of Which? expressing concerns about hazardous electrical products being vended through online platforms.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences poorly designed electrical items could pose, including life-altering and potentially fatal outcomes. Davies urged the government to leverage new authorities under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to fortify product safety regulations and enforce clear legal obligations for online marketplaces, supported by stringent enforcement measures.
In response, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety, highlighting its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company affirmed that all products on its platform must adhere to relevant laws and regulations, assuring the removal of chargers flagged by Which?. Amazon asserted its proactive stance in monitoring safety concerns, recalling compromised products, and reaching out to customers when necessary.
Similarly, B&Q echoed these commitments, underscoring its dedication to product safety and the proactive prevention of listed recalled items on its Marketplace platform.
For consumers, the advice is straightforward: opt for chargers from authorized retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these products may entail higher initial costs, experts caution that the potential safety hazards associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any cost savings.