An urgent warning has been issued for users of Android and iPhone devices regarding the dangers of using unofficial charging accessories. With many new devices now excluding chargers and only providing a USB-C cable, consumers are faced with the need to purchase separate adapters, often at a cost of £20 or more.
In a bid to save money, consumers may turn to cheaper alternatives available on online platforms like Amazon, where unofficial chargers can be found for under £8, significantly less than the branded options from companies like Apple and Samsung. However, consumer advocate group Which? has raised alarm over the safety risks associated with these discounted chargers.
Following a series of tests on chargers purchased from various online marketplaces including Amazon, AliExpress, and eBay, Which? discovered concerning results. Nine chargers were flagged for the risk of electric shock due to substandard manufacturing, while eight were identified as potential fire or explosion hazards.
Of particular concern was a counterfeit plug designed to mimic Apple’s USB-C 35W Power Adapter, priced at £11.99 and bearing Apple’s branding on its packaging. Despite its appearance, the product failed safety tests, revealing the dangers posed by counterfeit electrical accessories.
Which? also found chargers lacking essential UK safety markings and devices with poorly designed internal circuitry that could lead to overheating, fires, or explosions. This investigation underscores a recurring issue of unsafe electrical products being sold through online marketplaces.
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, emphasized the life-threatening consequences of poorly designed electrical items and criticized online marketplaces for not doing enough to address the risks posed by counterfeit chargers. She called on the government to enforce stricter product safety laws for online platforms to ensure consumer protection.
Responding to the concerns raised, Amazon reiterated its commitment to customer safety and noted its collaboration with Electrical Safety First to promote safe charging practices. The company stated that all products on its platform must adhere to laws and regulations, and assured that chargers flagged by Which? had been removed. Amazon also mentioned its proactive measures to monitor safety issues, recall faulty products, and inform customers as necessary.
Similarly, B&Q affirmed its dedication to product safety, confirming that it actively checks for recalled items on its Marketplace to prevent their sale.
Consumers are advised to purchase chargers from authorized retailers or trusted brands like Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung to mitigate safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives. While these products may come at a higher price, experts warn that the potential dangers of using unofficial chargers far outweigh any cost savings.