All UK phone owners are being urged to check their chargers following an urgent alert from consumer watchdog Which?. The warning applies to both iPhone and Android users, highlighting serious safety risks associated with unofficial power packs.
Which? Investigation Reveals Dangerous Chargers
Which? purchased a range of chargers from online marketplaces including Amazon (and Amazon Haul), AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. Testing revealed alarming results: nine chargers were found to pose a risk of electric shock due to poor manufacturing standards, while eight were deemed potential fire or explosion hazards.
Notably, a counterfeit charger resembling Apple's USB-C 35W Power Adapter was sold for £11.99 with Apple branding. Which? confirmed it failed safety tests. The investigation also uncovered chargers lacking mandatory UK safety markings and those with dangerously designed internal circuitry that could increase the risk of overheating, fire, or explosion.
Why Consumers Turn to Cheaper Alternatives
Most new devices now ship with only a USB-C cable, not a charger. Official adapters cost at least £20, while unofficial chargers are available for under £8 on platforms like Amazon. This price difference drives consumers toward cheaper options, but Which? warns these bargain purchases could have serious consequences.
Expert Warnings and Calls for Action
Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, stated: "Badly designed electrical products can have life-altering, and even fatal, consequences. Online marketplaces have been aware of the risks posed by counterfeit chargers for years, yet consumers continue to be exposed to dangerous products." She urged the government to use new powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to strengthen product safety laws and introduce clear legal obligations for online marketplaces.
Responses from Retailers
Amazon emphasized that customer safety remains a top priority and highlighted its partnership with Electrical Safety First. The company confirmed that all chargers identified by Which? had been removed from its platform and that it actively monitors for safety concerns, recalls affected products, and contacts customers when necessary. B&Q also stated it takes product safety seriously and proactively checks that recalled items are not listed on its Marketplace.
Advice for Consumers
For UK phone users, the message is straightforward: purchase chargers from official retailers or trusted brands such as Apple, Belkin, Anker, and Samsung. While these products may cost more upfront, experts warn that the potential safety risks associated with cheaper alternatives far outweigh the savings.
