Plugging in your phone to charge could give you a life-altering electric shock, start a fire, or even cause an explosion, consumer group Which? has warned after finding dangerously made chargers sold on major online marketplaces.
The investigation bought 15 USB phone chargers from seven different online marketplaces and tested them for safety and legality. Nine were so badly manufactured that anyone using them was at risk of receiving an electric shock. Eight of those also posed significant fire and explosion hazards. All 15 chargers lacked essential safety information on their packaging, the device itself, or in accompanying documentation, making their sale in the UK illegal.
“Why some cheap phone chargers on Amazon, eBay and other sites can electrocute or explode, and how to stay safe.”
The dangerous items were purchased from Amazon (including its ultra-cheap arm Amazon Haul), AliExpress, B&Q Marketplace, Debenhams Marketplace, and eBay. Among the worst was a fake Apple USB-C 35W Power Adaptor bought for £11.99 on eBay. When Which? researchers opened it, they found a lump of modelling clay inside, apparently to give the charger a more weighty, robust feel. Arcing sounds — caused by a current jumping between two parts of the circuit, which could trigger an explosion or electric shock — were heard after 10 seconds of an electrical strength test. One customer who bought the charger said it had overloaded and ruined their iPad and phone. Two unbranded chargers from eBay sellers for £2.10 and £2.80 also posed risks of fire, explosion and electrocution. A 2-1 Super Fast Charger for £10.99 from a seller on B&Q Marketplace failed safety tests and had potential to explode. A Dual Port 35W charger for £9.99 from Debenhams marketplace also failed all tests and was weighted with modelling clay. Two chargers from AliExpress for £1.30 and £5.69 had multiple failings. While chargers from Temu and Shein passed safety tests, they were missing required markings.
This isn't a new problem. Which? first exposed the danger of counterfeit and substandard chargers seven years ago. The group is now calling on the government to urgently use new powers under the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill to impose a clear legal duty on online marketplaces to ensure the safety of products sold by third-party sellers. "Badly designed electricals like these can have life-altering — even fatal — consequences," said Sue Davies, Which? head of consumer protection policy. "Online marketplaces have known about the danger of knock off chargers for the better part of a decade, but consumers continue to be placed at risk."
For UK readers, the practical impact is simple: if you buy a cheap phone charger from an online marketplace, there's a real chance it could be unsafe. The chargers are often visually convincing and sold at low prices, but they may lack critical safety features such as proper insulation, over-current protection, and clear markings. Using them could lead to electric shock, fire, or damage to your devices. Which? advises consumers to buy chargers from reputable brands or directly from official retailers. Look for the UKCA or CE mark, and avoid chargers that seem too cheap or come from unknown sellers.
Q: How can I tell if a phone charger is safe? Look for the UKCA mark (or CE mark) on the charger. It should also have the manufacturer's name or trademark, model number, and voltage/current ratings. If it feels unusually light or heavy, or has no markings, it's likely unsafe. Buy from trusted brands or direct from the device maker.
Q: Why do online marketplaces sell dangerous chargers? Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and B&Q allow third-party sellers to list products. They are not required to verify the safety of every item sold. Which? argues they should have a legal duty to ensure products are safe, similar to requirements for physical shops.
Q: What happens if I get an electric shock from a charger? If you experience a tingling sensation or see sparks while using a charger, stop using it immediately and unplug it. Seek medical attention if you receive a significant shock. Report the product to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer service. If your device is damaged, contact the seller for a refund.
What happens next depends on government action. The Product Regulation and Metrology Bill, currently going through Parliament, could give ministers the power to compel online marketplaces to do more. Which? is urging them to act swiftly. In the meantime, the platforms have not recalled the chargers tested, so consumers must remain vigilant.