An urgent warning has been issued for owners of Android or iPhone devices regarding the potential dangers of using unofficial chargers. With the trend of new devices being sold without chargers, many consumers are opting for cheaper alternatives found online. However, consumer group Which? has raised alarm bells about the safety risks associated with these bargain chargers.
After conducting tests on chargers purchased from various online platforms like Amazon, eBay, and others, Which? discovered that a significant number of them posed serious hazards. Some chargers were found to have poor manufacturing standards, risking electric shock, while others were identified as potential fire or explosion risks.
In a concerning revelation, Which? uncovered a fake Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter being sold for £11.99, complete with counterfeit packaging bearing Apple’s branding. The investigation also revealed chargers lacking mandatory safety markings and devices with internal circuitry issues that could lead to overheating, fires, or explosions.
This is not the first time Which? has expressed concerns about the sale of unsafe electrical products on online platforms. Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences poorly designed electrical products can have and urged the government to enforce stricter product safety laws for online marketplaces.
Responding to these findings, Amazon and B&Q reiterated their commitment to customer safety. Amazon stated that all products on its platform must adhere to regulations and safety standards, with identified problematic chargers promptly removed. B&Q also assured consumers that recalled items are not listed for sale on its Marketplace platform.
To safeguard against potential risks, consumers are advised to purchase chargers from reputable retailers or trusted brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While official products may come at a higher price, experts caution that the safety benefits outweigh the savings associated with cheaper alternatives.