- Which? discovers ‘potentially deadly’ phone chargers being sold by major retailers
- Cheap chargers pose serious risks of fire, electric shock, etc.
- Consumer group demands tougher government regulation
The UK’s consumer watchdog Which? has revealed that many third-party phone chargers available to consumers could pose “potentially deadly” risks – and they are often hidden in plain sight.
Nine of 15 chargers tested by Which? presented serious electric shock risks, while eight also presented potential fire or explosion risks, but more worryingly, many were available from popular and trustworthy retailers and online like Amazon, B&Q and Debenhams.
The news is also worth noting, as the results come seven full years after which? first warned of dangerous counterfeit and poor quality chargers, suggesting the problem remains widespread despite repeated warnings.
These are the reasons why cheap chargers may fail basic safety tests
According to the report, many chargers tested failed basic tests because internal electrical components were too close together, insulation was inadequate, high-voltage stress tests caused failures, and plug pins did not meet the requirements of British standards.
The most widespread concern therefore was that defective products could cause electrical arcing, where electricity passes from one component to another, leading to electrical component failures in the most favorable cases, but electric shock, overheating, fire and explosions in the most severe cases.
Among the examples given by the group was a counterfeit Apple USC-C 35W power adapter selling for £11.99 – a mock-up not at all similar to the £59 Apple charger. Researchers discovered arcing sounds after just 10 seconds and, upon further investigation, found plasticine inside the magazine.
They believe it was added to make the device heavier, thus giving it a more “premium” feel. A second, separate model, sold through Debenhams, also included modeling clay.
Besides the weirdly cheap chargers from Amazon (£2.99 and £3.99), eBay (£2.10 and £2.80) and AliExpress (£1.30 and £5.69), which ones? also found that a more expensive £10.99 charger sold through B&Q was subject to fire, electric shock and explosion risks.
And even chargers that passed safety tests, including models sold through Temu and Shein, weren’t completely legitimate. They still lacked the required markings and importer details, making them illegal in the UK.
“Poorly designed electrical devices like these can have potentially life-threatening or even fatal consequences,” commented Sue Davies, head of consumer protection policy.
Which? calls for greater enforcement in online markets
Which? argues that market operators have now become a major route through which dangerous and illegal imports can reach UK consumers, as they often act as intermediaries for third-party sellers.
However, despite the UK’s Product Regulation and Metrology Act being implemented in July 2025, the consumer group says implementation has been slow. Under the law, the government can impose obligations on online marketplaces.
Which? therefore advocates for stronger enforcement powers and greater accountability for third-party seller registrations.
“By making online marketplaces legally responsible for unsafe products, the government can set a leading standard for product safety in the digital age,” Davies added.
As for consumers, it is advisable to buy from recognized brands and to be wary of very cheap chargers from major brands. UK citizens should also look for CE or UKCA marks and importer details.
For the future, which one? presented UK Minister for Business and Commerce Kate Dearden with a petition, with 150,000 signatories, calling on the government to regulate online marketplaces and fine them for violations.
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