An urgent warning has been issued for Android and iPhone users regarding the potential dangers of using unofficial chargers. With many new devices now being sold without chargers, consumers are turning to cheaper alternatives available online, such as on Amazon, for prices below £8, significantly less than branded chargers from companies like Apple or Samsung.
Consumer advocate group Which? conducted tests on various chargers purchased from online platforms like Amazon, eBay, and others. Shockingly, nine chargers were found to have electric shock risks due to poor manufacturing, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion hazards.
One counterfeit charger even closely resembled an official Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and featuring Apple’s branding on the packaging. However, the product failed safety tests, proving it to be a dangerous fake.
Further investigations revealed chargers without necessary UK safety markings and devices with risky internal circuitry that could lead to overheating, fires, or explosions. This isn’t the first time that Which? has raised concerns about unsafe electrical products being sold on online marketplaces.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences of poorly designed electrical items and called for stronger product safety laws and enforcement on online platforms to protect consumers.
Responding to these concerns, Amazon assured that customer safety is a top priority and mentioned its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company stated that all products on its platform must comply with regulations, and the identified risky chargers have been removed. B&Q also emphasized its commitment to product safety and ensuring that recalled items are not sold on its platform.
Consumers are advised to purchase chargers from reputable retailers or trusted brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung, despite the higher cost, as the safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives are deemed far greater than the savings.