Amazon and TikTok are removing scam energy-saving devices from sale after all 13 devices bought by Electrical Safety First from AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace and TikTok Shop failed basic safety tests. The devices, advertised as being able to save electricity and reduce energy bills, could instead result in electric shock and fire, with two exploding during testing.
Devices fail to deliver promised savings
The devices claim to stabilise the voltage in a home simply by being plugged into a socket, but Electrical Safety First found that none contained components capable of delivering the energy savings claimed by the seller. In fact, they would actually cost users money to run them.
Additionally, the plug pins on all 13 devices failed to meet the required dimensional and mechanical strength requirements, increasing the risk of electric shock and fire. Other devices had no fuse or other suitable protection inside, while some contained a glass fuse in the mains circuit that could shatter, once again putting users at risk.
Concerns over widespread sales
There are now fears that tens of thousands of the devices may have already been sold to UK shoppers, based on information suggested on the product listings. This comes as energy bills hit a three-year high following Ofgem’s energy price cap rise of 4%.
Electrical Safety First product safety engineer Giuseppe Capanna said: “Unscrupulous third-party sellers on online marketplaces are exploiting the financial pressures facing households, promoting bogus products that prey on people’s understandable desire to save money on their energy bills.
“At a time when household budgets are already being squeezed, consumers should be able to trust that products being sold to them are safe and do what they claim.
“But our investigation exposes these so-called energy-saving devices for what they really are: worthless products that deliver no savings while potentially putting people at serious risk of electric shock or fire.”
Platforms respond to investigation
He added: “Shopping through online marketplaces in the UK is currently far too dangerous. Time and time again, our investigations uncover dangerous products being sold on these platforms, despite their claims that customer safety is a priority.
“We need bold and robust, legally enforceable measures that make platforms responsible for the safety of products sold on their sites. Without urgent action, dangerous products will continue to put consumers’ lives at risk.”
AliExpress noted in a statement: “Product safety is our top priority at AliExpress. We have removed the five listings identified by Electrical Safety First and are contacting affected customers to initiate a recall through our established channels. We are also reviewing the broader category for enhanced controls.
“We welcome detailed findings like these and remain committed to ensuring a safe online shopping environment.”
Meanwhile, Amazon and TikTok said the products flagged in the investigation have been removed from sale and are no longer available to buy on their sites.
