Are you using one of these popular chargers? Find out if your power bank is a hidden fire risk!
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If you’re like most at The GrayVine, you probably have a trusty portable charger tucked in your purse, glove box, or travel bag—ready to rescue your phone from the dreaded “low battery” warning.
But what if that little lifesaver is actually a hidden fire hazard? That’s the alarming reality for thousands of Americans who purchased certain power banks, now under urgent recall due to serious safety concerns.
The Shocking Recall: What Happened?
Chinese electronics maker iWalk has issued a recall for 27,500 of its popular portable power banks after 15 reports of the devices overheating and catching fire. Even more concerning, 10 of those incidents resulted in burn injuries.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is sounding the alarm: these lithium-ion battery-powered chargers, sold on Amazon, iWalkMall.com, and other online retailers between July 2021 and March 2024, pose a real risk of injury—or worse.
What Makes These Power Banks Dangerous?
Lithium-ion batteries are the workhorses behind most of our modern gadgets, but they’re not without their risks.
When damaged, poorly manufactured, or exposed to certain conditions, these batteries can overheat, swell, and even ignite. In the case of the iWalk Magnetic Wireless Power Banks, the problem appears to be a manufacturing defect that can cause the battery to catch fire during normal use.
Which Models Are Affected?
If you own an iWalk power bank, it’s time to check the details. The recall affects two main models:
The word “iWALK” is printed on the front, and the model and serial numbers are on the back. Some models also have a circular phone holder ring above the LED display.
Also read: One of your kitchen appliances could be a fire hazard. Half a million units recalled—check YOURS now!
Serial Numbers to Watch For
Here’s where it gets a bit technical, but it’s important. Only certain serial numbers are affected. If you have one of the following, your device is under recall:
Model MXB008:
- GK2309880, GK2309899, GK2310154, GK2310155, GK2310157, GK2310160, GK2310346, GK2311108, GK2311109, GK2311110, GK2311315, GK2311396
Models DBL6000M/DBL6000P:
- GK2309901, GK2309902, GK2309903, GK2310005, GK2310006, GK2310163, GK2310165, GK2311388, GK2312035, GK2312036, GK2312282, GK2312461, GK2312462, GK2312737, GK2312770, GK2401164, GK2401564, GK2403407, GK23081458, GK23081460, GK23081462
If your power bank matches any of these numbers, stop using it immediately.
Also read: A scalding situation—Thousands of machines pulled for safety concerns
What Should You Do If You Have a Recalled Power Bank?
1. Stop Using It Right Away: Even if your charger seems to be working fine, don’t take any chances. Unplug it and set it aside in a safe, non-flammable area.
2. Get Your Refund: iWalk is offering a full refund—including sales tax and shipping. Here’s how to claim it:
Why Are Lithium-Ion Batteries So Tricky?
Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere—from cell phones to hearing aids to electric cars. They’re lightweight and powerful, but they can be temperamental.
Overcharging, physical damage, or manufacturing defects can all lead to overheating and, in rare cases, fires or explosions. That’s why recalls like this are taken so seriously.
In earlier news: Fire hazard warning issued for 429,000 recalled tech accessories
Have you ever experienced a battery overheating or a device recall? Do you have tips for safely using portable chargers or other electronics? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
But what if that little lifesaver is actually a hidden fire hazard? That’s the alarming reality for thousands of Americans who purchased certain power banks, now under urgent recall due to serious safety concerns.
The Shocking Recall: What Happened?
Chinese electronics maker iWalk has issued a recall for 27,500 of its popular portable power banks after 15 reports of the devices overheating and catching fire. Even more concerning, 10 of those incidents resulted in burn injuries.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is sounding the alarm: these lithium-ion battery-powered chargers, sold on Amazon, iWalkMall.com, and other online retailers between July 2021 and March 2024, pose a real risk of injury—or worse.
What Makes These Power Banks Dangerous?
Lithium-ion batteries are the workhorses behind most of our modern gadgets, but they’re not without their risks.
When damaged, poorly manufactured, or exposed to certain conditions, these batteries can overheat, swell, and even ignite. In the case of the iWalk Magnetic Wireless Power Banks, the problem appears to be a manufacturing defect that can cause the battery to catch fire during normal use.
Over 27,000 iWalk Magnetic Wireless Power Banks have been recalled after 15 reports of the devices catching fire, resulting in 10 burn injuries. Image source: CPSC.
Which Models Are Affected?
If you own an iWalk power bank, it’s time to check the details. The recall affects two main models:
- PowerGrip Slim (Model MXB008)
- PowerGrip Mag (Models DBL6000M and DBL6000P)
The word “iWALK” is printed on the front, and the model and serial numbers are on the back. Some models also have a circular phone holder ring above the LED display.
Also read: One of your kitchen appliances could be a fire hazard. Half a million units recalled—check YOURS now!
Serial Numbers to Watch For
Here’s where it gets a bit technical, but it’s important. Only certain serial numbers are affected. If you have one of the following, your device is under recall:
Model MXB008:
- GK2309880, GK2309899, GK2310154, GK2310155, GK2310157, GK2310160, GK2310346, GK2311108, GK2311109, GK2311110, GK2311315, GK2311396
Models DBL6000M/DBL6000P:
- GK2309901, GK2309902, GK2309903, GK2310005, GK2310006, GK2310163, GK2310165, GK2311388, GK2312035, GK2312036, GK2312282, GK2312461, GK2312462, GK2312737, GK2312770, GK2401164, GK2401564, GK2403407, GK23081458, GK23081460, GK23081462
If your power bank matches any of these numbers, stop using it immediately.
Also read: A scalding situation—Thousands of machines pulled for safety concerns
What Should You Do If You Have a Recalled Power Bank?
1. Stop Using It Right Away: Even if your charger seems to be working fine, don’t take any chances. Unplug it and set it aside in a safe, non-flammable area.
2. Get Your Refund: iWalk is offering a full refund—including sales tax and shipping. Here’s how to claim it:
- Write “Recalled” on your power bank with a permanent marker.
- Take a clear photo showing the model and serial number, plus your “Recalled” label.
- Email the photo to U2O Global at [email protected].
The recall affects models PowerGrip Slim (MXB008) and PowerGrip Mag (DBL6000M/DBL6000P), sold on Amazon and other sites between July 2021 and March 2024. Image source: CPSC.
Why Are Lithium-Ion Batteries So Tricky?
Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere—from cell phones to hearing aids to electric cars. They’re lightweight and powerful, but they can be temperamental.
Overcharging, physical damage, or manufacturing defects can all lead to overheating and, in rare cases, fires or explosions. That’s why recalls like this are taken so seriously.
In earlier news: Fire hazard warning issued for 429,000 recalled tech accessories
Have you ever experienced a battery overheating or a device recall? Do you have tips for safely using portable chargers or other electronics? Share your stories and advice in the comments below!
