An urgent warning has been issued to individuals using Android or iPhone devices, emphasizing the critical nature of the message. The caution arises from ongoing apprehensions regarding the use of unofficial power packs for charging batteries. With the prevalent practice of new devices being shipped solely with a USB-C cable, sans a charger in the packaging, consumers are often compelled to make additional purchases, costing at least £20, to acquire a suitable adapter.
This additional expense may prompt consumers to seek more economical options. Unofficial chargers are readily available on online platforms like Amazon for under £8, significantly cheaper than products directly from renowned manufacturers such as Apple or Samsung. However, consumer advocacy group Which? cautions that opting for these budget-friendly alternatives could expose individuals to significant safety hazards.
In an investigative initiative, Which? procured various chargers from online marketplaces including Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. Shockingly, the testing outcomes revealed that nine chargers posed a risk of electric shock due to substandard manufacturing practices, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion hazards.
Of particular concern was a plug resembling the Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter priced at £11.99, complete with packaging displaying Apple branding. Despite its outward appearance, Which? discovered that this product was a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments.
The investigation exposed chargers lacking essential UK safety markings and devices with poorly designed internal circuitry, raising the likelihood of overheating, fire incidents, or explosions.
This is not the first instance where Which? has voiced apprehensions about hazardous electrical products being distributed via online marketplaces.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the grave consequences poorly designed electrical goods can have, even leading to life-altering or fatal outcomes. Davies urged the government to leverage new authorities under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to fortify product safety regulations and introduce explicit legal responsibilities for online marketplaces, supplemented by stringent enforcement measures.
Responding to these concerns, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety and highlighted its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to advocate secure charging practices. The company affirmed that all products available on its platform must adhere to pertinent laws and regulations, confirming the removal of chargers flagged by Which?. Amazon also assured proactive monitoring for safety issues, recalling affected items, and reaching out to customers as needed.
B&Q echoed similar commitments, emphasizing its dedication to product safety and proactive measures to ensure that recalled items are not listed for sale on its Marketplace platform.
For consumers, the advice is clear: opt for chargers from authorized retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these products may entail a higher initial cost, experts caution that the potential safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any cost savings.
