Counterfeit Apple Power Adapters Found to Contain Metal Weights, Raising Safety Concerns
An investigation reveals significant safety risks associated with counterfeit Apple power adapters sold across the UK and EU.
An investigation by Apple in collaboration with the charity Electrical Safety First has uncovered alarming findings regarding counterfeit power adapters designed to mimic genuine Apple products.
The inquiry focused on 56 counterfeit power adapters available in the UK and 60 in the EU, many of which bore Apple’s trademarks or closely resembled the design of authentic chargers.
Among these, 22 samples underwent detailed testing, revealing that 68% contained metal weights internally.
The incorporation of metal weights is a tactic employed by counterfeiters to create a sense of heft resembling that of a legitimate power adapter, typically crafted with high-quality components.
However, these weights have been found to compromise the electrical separation necessary for safe operation, increasing the risk of electric shock and fire.
In genuine Apple power adapters, the design ensures that there is adequate separation between internal components, preventing the 240 volts from the mains electricity supply from contacting the USB output connector.
In contrast, the presence of metal weights in counterfeit devices undermines this safety feature, posing a considerable danger to consumers who may unintentionally expose themselves to hazardous voltage.
Additionally, tests assessing the strength of the plug pins on these counterfeit adapters revealed that 71% of them failed.
Many of the pins either snapped or became distorted, with the possibility of the broken pin becoming lodged in an electrical socket, further endangering users and heightening the risk of electrical shock.
Luke Osborne, deputy technical director at Electrical Safety First, highlighted the evolving tactics employed by criminals to deceive consumers seeking bargains.
He noted the concerning increase in risks associated with fake products, emphasizing the importance of purchasing electronic items from reputable retailers to mitigate safety hazards.
The investigation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers posed by counterfeit electronics in the marketplace.
The inquiry focused on 56 counterfeit power adapters available in the UK and 60 in the EU, many of which bore Apple’s trademarks or closely resembled the design of authentic chargers.
Among these, 22 samples underwent detailed testing, revealing that 68% contained metal weights internally.
The incorporation of metal weights is a tactic employed by counterfeiters to create a sense of heft resembling that of a legitimate power adapter, typically crafted with high-quality components.
However, these weights have been found to compromise the electrical separation necessary for safe operation, increasing the risk of electric shock and fire.
In genuine Apple power adapters, the design ensures that there is adequate separation between internal components, preventing the 240 volts from the mains electricity supply from contacting the USB output connector.
In contrast, the presence of metal weights in counterfeit devices undermines this safety feature, posing a considerable danger to consumers who may unintentionally expose themselves to hazardous voltage.
Additionally, tests assessing the strength of the plug pins on these counterfeit adapters revealed that 71% of them failed.
Many of the pins either snapped or became distorted, with the possibility of the broken pin becoming lodged in an electrical socket, further endangering users and heightening the risk of electrical shock.
Luke Osborne, deputy technical director at Electrical Safety First, highlighted the evolving tactics employed by criminals to deceive consumers seeking bargains.
He noted the concerning increase in risks associated with fake products, emphasizing the importance of purchasing electronic items from reputable retailers to mitigate safety hazards.
The investigation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and dangers posed by counterfeit electronics in the marketplace.
