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Amazon recalls six AmazonBasics power bank models over fire concerns

Amazon recalls six AmazonBasics power bank models over fire concerns

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Illustration by Alex Castro / The Verge

Amazon is recalling six models of its AmazonBasics Portable Power Banks in cooperation with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. The power banks, sold between December 2014 and July 2017, have a risk of overheating, which can cause the unit to melt, posing a fire hazard.

The affected power bank models include the 16,100mAh, 10,000mAh, 5,600mAh, 3,000mAh, 2,000mAh with Micro USB cable, and 3,000mAh with Micro USB cable. Amazon is sending out emails to those who have purchased the power banks, recommending they immediately stop using them. The email also provides a one-time URL for the user to register the product and get further instructions about returns and obtaining a refund. All listings for these power banks have already been removed from the Amazon website and they can no longer be purchased.

Affected AmazonBasics Portable Power Bank models.
Affected AmazonBasics Portable Power Bank models.
Image: Amazon

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission says that about 260,000 units are affected. Additionally, according to the recall details, “Amazon has received 53 reports of the power banks overheating in the US, including one report of chemical burns due to contact with battery acid and four reports of property damage, including fire and smoke damage.”

Thanks to A. Shakouri for the tip!

Update March 15th, 10:11AM ET: The story has been updated to include details from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.