Image credit: Defective Products Recall Center/Saudi Ministry of Commerce
The Ministry of Commerce of Saudi Arabia has issued a recall for over 88,000 Anker power banks due to significant safety issues.
The models affected are reported to have a potential risk of internal electrical short circuits, which could lead to overheating and an increased fire hazard, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency.
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A total of 88,518 power banks are subject to this recall, including the following models:
- A1257 (Anker Power Bank 10K, 22.5W)
- A1681 (Anker Zolo Power Bank 20K, 30W, Built-in USB-C and Lightning Cable)
- A1689 (Anker Zolo Power Bank 20K, 30W, Built-in USB-C Cable)
- A1647 (Anker Power Bank 20,000mAh, 22.5W, Built-in USB-C Cable)
- A1652 (MagGo Power Bank 10,000mAh, 7.5W, Stand)
The ministry has advised consumers to cease using any of the affected power banks immediately and to reach out to Anker for a replacement or a full refund.
Identified Fire Risk
As per the ministry’s announcement, the recalled power banks may experience an internal short circuit related to their batteries, posing a potential fire risk. This recall is a precautionary measure aimed at safeguarding consumer safety.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to vigilant monitoring of consumer products and prompt action in response to identified safety concerns.
How to Verify Your Device
Consumers are encouraged to check the model number printed on the bottom or side of their Anker power banks. If the model is one of those listed in the recall, users should confirm the serial number or provide proof of purchase via Anker’s official recall website.
For additional details on the recalled products, consumers can also refer to the Defective Products Recall Center.
Anker’s toll-free hotline can be reached at 800-850-0030 to initiate the recall process.
Steps for Affected Consumers
If you find that your power bank is included in the recall:
- Discontinue using the device immediately.
- Do not dispose of it until you receive confirmation from Anker.
- Fill out the Recall Claim form available on Anker’s website.
- Follow the provided instructions to obtain a replacement or refund.
Disposal Guidelines
Upon confirmation from Anker that your device is eligible for return, arrangements will be made for either collection or return shipment of the recalled unit. Consumers should not throw away recalled batteries in regular waste, recycling bins, or any battery drop-off locations at retail stores, as these are not equipped to safely handle defective lithium-ion products.
These batteries must be processed through certified facilities due to the heightened risk of fire. Anker has pledged to manage the safe disposal of all recalled units.