An urgent warning has been issued for owners of Android and iPhone devices, emphasizing the critical nature of the concern. The alert stems from worries about using unofficial power sources to charge batteries. Many new devices now come without a charger, only a USB-C cable, leading consumers to seek affordable alternatives. While official adapters can cost about £20, unofficial chargers available on platforms like Amazon for under £8 may seem appealing due to their lower prices. However, consumer watchdog Which? has cautioned that these cheaper options could pose serious safety hazards.
Which? conducted an investigation, purchasing various chargers from online marketplaces such as Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. The findings were alarming, revealing that nine chargers had the potential to cause electric shocks due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were identified as fire or explosion risks.
One particular charger closely resembled an Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter priced at £11.99, complete with Apple branding on its packaging. Despite its appearance, Which? determined that the product was a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments. The investigation also exposed chargers lacking mandatory UK safety markings and devices with hazardous internal circuitry, increasing the likelihood of overheating, fires, or explosions.
This incident is not the first time Which? has raised concerns about unsafe electrical goods being sold on online platforms. Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, stressed the severe consequences poorly designed electrical products could have, urging the government to enhance product safety laws with clear obligations for online marketplaces, supported by robust enforcement measures.
Responding to these concerns, Amazon emphasized its commitment to customer safety, working with Electrical Safety First to promote secure charging practices. Amazon stated that all products on its platform must comply with laws and regulations, noting that the flagged chargers had been removed. B&Q echoed these sentiments, emphasizing its dedication to product safety and proactive efforts to prevent the listing of recalled items on its Marketplace.
For consumers, the advice is simple: opt for chargers from official retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these products may come at a higher price, experts caution that the potential safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any cost savings.