“Beware: The Hidden Cable Hazard for Your New Android or iPhone That Could Spark Fires and Shocks!”

INDIVIDUALS who have opened a brand new smartphone beneath the Christmas tree have been cautioned about a prevalent error that can be quite perilous.

Whether utilizing an old charging cable or purchasing new ones online, an incorrect selection could lead to an explosion or electrocution.

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An estimated 1.8 million phone chargers are purchased online in the UK every year, according to the Electrical Safety First charity.

Although the lure of inexpensive options may entice you, think twice since counterfeit chargers can be fatal.

The charity has evaluated numerous counterfeit chargers and found that almost all of them (98 percent) were capable of causing a lethal electric shock or igniting a fire.

Not only is it potentially lethal, but it could also damage your Android device or iPhone.

Additionally, they are generally inferior, meaning it will require more time to recharge your phone.

Electrical Safety First indicates that unsafe chargers are frequently manufactured in China for as little as 3p.

These typically utilize low-quality components and may lack critical elements such as a fuse.

A genuine iPhone charger contains over 60 components, whereas fakes might include less than half.

“Counterfeit chargers can lead devices to overheat and even explode, ruining your phone – and possibly resulting in serious injuries for you,” the charity cautions.

“The substandard components often found in counterfeit chargers may result in electrocution, damaging your phone’s internal components and leaving you quite shaken as well.”

They recommend verifying whether you can securely plug it into the wall – if it doesn’t fit properly, the pins might be of incorrect size and therefore perilous.

Additionally, search for key information such as a brand name or logo, a model and batch number, and the CE or UKCA mark, which all dependable electronic accessories possess.

However, don’t depend solely on a CE or UKCA mark as an assurance of safety since it can be easily replicated.

Individuals should check that the voltage and current rating correspond with that of your phone.

“A third of individuals who purchased a counterfeit electrical item bought it from an online marketplace,” Electrical Safety First states.

“Electrical Safety First advises purchasing from a trusted retailer, either directly from the manufacturer’s website or a reputable High Street store – the products they sell will comply with the appropriate safety standards, and should something go awry, you can return the item for repair or a refund.”

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