An urgent warning has been issued to owners of Android and iPhone devices, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation. The alert has been prompted by ongoing apprehensions regarding the use of unofficial charging accessories. With most new gadgets now being sold with just a USB-C cable and no charger included, consumers are left facing the prospect of spending a minimum of £20 for a genuine adapter.
While the cost of official chargers may not be budget-friendly, it’s understandable why many individuals turn to cheaper alternatives. Unofficial chargers can be easily found on popular online platforms like Amazon for under £8, substantially less than the prices offered by leading manufacturers such as Apple or Samsung. However, the consumer advocacy group Which? has raised red flags about the safety risks associated with these budget options.
Conducting an investigation, Which? procured a variety of chargers from online marketplaces like Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. The tests conducted revealed alarming results: nine chargers were identified as potential electric shock hazards due to subpar manufacturing standards, while eight were flagged as possible fire or explosion risks.
One particularly concerning discovery was a plug resembling Apple’s USB-C 35W Power Adapter, retailing for £11.99 and even featuring packaging with Apple branding. Despite its appearance, Which? determined that the product was a counterfeit charger that failed safety assessments.
Furthermore, the investigation exposed chargers lacking mandatory UK safety markings and devices with poorly designed internal circuitry that could escalate the likelihood of overheating, fire, or explosion incidents.
This is not the first instance where Which? has voiced concerns about hazardous electrical products being sold on online platforms.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences poorly designed electrical items could have, including life-altering or fatal outcomes. She urged the government to utilize new powers granted by the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to fortify product safety regulations and enforce clear legal responsibilities for online marketplaces, supported by rigorous enforcement mechanisms.
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 affirmed that all products on its platform must adhere to relevant laws and regulations, and assured the removal of the chargers flagged by Which?. Amazon also stated its active monitoring for safety issues, recalling affected products, and reaching out to customers when necessary.
B&Q echoed these sentiments, underscoring its dedication to product safety and proactive efforts to ensure no recalled items are available for sale on its Marketplace platform.
For consumers, the directive is clear: opt for chargers from official retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. Despite the higher upfront costs of these products, experts caution that the potential safety hazards linked to cheaper alternatives far outweigh any financial savings.