An urgent warning has been issued concerning the use of unofficial chargers for Android and iPhone devices, emphasizing the potential risks involved. With the trend of new devices omitting chargers and providing only USB-C cables, consumers are often prompted to seek cheaper alternatives. While unofficial chargers available online can cost significantly less than those from reputable brands like Apple or Samsung, consumer advocacy group Which? is cautioning that these budget options may pose serious safety hazards.
Recent testing conducted by Which? on chargers purchased from various online marketplaces, including Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay, revealed alarming findings. Among the chargers tested, nine were flagged for the risk of electric shock due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion threats.
In a particularly concerning discovery, a counterfeit charger closely resembling an Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter was found for £11.99, complete with packaging bearing Apple’s branding. Despite its appearance, the product failed safety assessments conducted by Which? due to its counterfeit nature.
Furthermore, the investigation uncovered chargers lacking mandatory safety markings for the UK market and devices with poorly designed internal circuitry that could elevate the likelihood of overheating, fires, or explosions. This scrutiny by Which? is not the first instance where concerns have been raised about unsafe electrical products being sold through online platforms.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences of poorly designed electrical products and urged the government to utilize new powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to enhance product safety regulations and impose clear legal obligations on online marketplaces, supported by rigorous enforcement measures.
Responding to these concerns, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety and highlighted its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company assured that all products listed on its platform adhere to relevant laws and regulations, with the identified chargers removed following Which?’s investigation. Amazon also stressed its proactive approach in monitoring safety issues, recalling affected products, and reaching out to customers as needed.
Similarly, B&Q underscored its dedication to product safety, affirming active checks to ensure recalled items are not available for sale on its Marketplace platform.
For consumers, the advice is straightforward: opt for chargers from authorized retailers or trusted brands such as Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these options may come at a higher cost initially, experts caution that the safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any potential savings.