A critical warning has been issued to all Android and iPhone users, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unofficial chargers. The alert stems from ongoing worries regarding the safety of charging devices with non-certified power sources. Nowadays, most new gadgets are sold without a charger, only including a USB-C cable. This situation often forces consumers to purchase a compatible adapter separately, typically costing around £20 or more.
Given the relatively high cost of official chargers, many people opt for cheaper alternatives like those found on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, priced under £8—considerably less than branded chargers from companies like Apple or Samsung. However, consumer advocacy group Which? has raised alarms about these budget options due to potential safety hazards they pose.
Which? conducted an investigation by purchasing various chargers from online marketplaces like Amazon, AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. Shockingly, the tests revealed that nine chargers had substandard manufacturing, leading to electric shock risks, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion threats.
Of particular concern was a counterfeit charger disguised as an Apple USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and even featuring Apple branding on its packaging. Despite its appearance, Which? found the product to be unsafe and failing essential safety assessments.
Additionally, the investigation unearthed chargers without mandatory UK safety markings and devices with poorly designed internal components that could lead to overheating, fires, or explosions, further elevating the safety risks.
This is not the first instance where Which? has highlighted the dangers of unsafe electrical products being sold on online platforms.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the severe consequences of poorly designed electrical items, citing potential life-threatening outcomes. She called for government intervention to enhance product safety regulations and impose clear responsibilities on online marketplaces to ensure consumer safety.
In response, Amazon assured customers of its commitment to safety and highlighted collaborations with Electrical Safety First to promote secure charging practices. The company stated that all products on its platform comply with relevant laws and regulations, confirming the removal of identified hazardous chargers. Amazon also emphasized its proactive approach in monitoring safety concerns, recalling defective products, and notifying customers when necessary.
B&Q echoed these sentiments, underscoring its dedication to product safety and proactive measures to prevent the sale of recalled items on its Marketplace.
For consumers, the advice is straightforward: opt for chargers from official retailers or reputable brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. Although these products may come at a higher price, experts caution that the safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh any potential savings.
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