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'Fatal' fake phone chargers sold by Amazon, B&Q, and eBay - the signs to look out for
- Consumer watchdog Which? tested 15 phone chargers from online marketplaces, finding nine posed serious risks of electric shock, fire, or explosion. All 15 units lacked mandatory packaging information, rendering their sale illegal in the UK.
- Researchers found one Debenhams Marketplace charger weighted with modelling clay to mimic a genuine feel. Counterfeiting remains a persistent issue as sellers cut corners to maximize profit over safety.
- Two unbranded eBay chargers costing £2.10 and £2.80 posed fire and shock risks, while a Debenhams Marketplace unit costing £9.99 failed all safety tests. AliExpress chargers costing £1.30 and £5.69 also displayed multiple electrical failings.
- Sue Davies, head of consumer protection policy at Which?, warned that badly designed electricals have "fatal" consequences. Retailers removed the listings, stating they treat customer safety as a priority.
- Electrical Safety First chief Lesley Rudd urged The Government to use the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to place a clear legal duty of care on online marketplaces. Rudd said robust enforcement and meaningful penalties are essential.
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31 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources31
Leaning Left5Leaning Right1Center19Last UpdatedBias Distribution76% Center
Bias Distribution
- 76% of the sources are Center
76% Center
L 20%
C 76%
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