Consumers in Gedling borough are being warned off buying bargain Apple iPhone chargers after 99% failed basic safety tests.
Trading Standard officers at Nottinghamshire County Council issued the alert following a national study found nearly all fake Apple chargers failed to protect against electric shocks.
The study found that only three out of a total of 400 tested counterfeit chargers had enough insulation to protect against electric shocks.
The Council has received three complaints about potentially dangerous counterfeit chargers in the last year.
When purchasing chargers make sure they are marked with the following:
• the CE mark that indicates the charger complies with European Safety standards.
• the name and address or trademark of the UK manufacturer or importer.
• a model number
• the packaging should also be marked with the name and address of a UK supplier.
Councillor Glynn Gilfoyle, Chair of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Community Safety Committee, said: “Whilst the number of complaints locally is relatively low, this new research shows how potentially dangerous counterfeit electrical items can be.
“It is tempting to replace a lost or broken charger with a counterfeit version to save a few pounds, but the safety risks to anyone who comes into contact with the item far outweighs any savings that may be made.”
To report any issues with a counterfeit item contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506.
