Chinese device maker iWalk has recalled 27,500 portable power banks because they may overheat and ignite.
The iWalk Magnetic Wireless Power Banks, sold on Amazon.com, iWalkMall.com, and other e-commerce websites from July 2021 through March 2024 (priced between $20-$57), were recalled after the company got 15 reports of the lithium-ion battery catching fire, resulting in 10 burn injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The chargers, which magnetically attach to smartphones and power other devices, have lithium-ion batteries that can ignite, causing a risk of injury or death to consumers, the agency said.
Customers who purchased the recalled iWalk Magnetic Wireless Power Banks – the PowerGrip Slim with model number MXB008 and PowerGrip Mag with model numbers DBL6000M/DBL6000P – can receive a full refund, including sales taxes and shipping fees, the company said on its recall website.
CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid: These chains are all set to close stores. Hundreds have already shuttered.
What iWalk Power Banks were recalled?
Sold in a variety of colors, the pocket-sized power banks have a circular LED display that shows the amount of power remaining. “iWALK” is printed on the front of each power bank, and the model numbers and serial numbers are printed on the back. Models DBL6000M and DBL6000P include a circular phone holder ring above the LED display screen, the company said.
The following model numbers and serial numbers are included in this recall:
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Model Number MXB008: Recalled devices have any of the following serial numbers GK2309880, GK2309899, GK2310154, GK2310155, GK2310157, GK2310160, GK2310346, GK2311108, GK2311109, GK2311110, GK2311315, and GK2311396.
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Model Number DBL6000M/DBL6000P: Recalled devices have any of the following the serial numbers: GK2309901, GK2309902, GK2309903, GK2310005, GK2310006, GK2310163, GK2310165, GK2311388, GK2312035, GK2312036, GK2312282, GK2312461, GK2312462, GK2312737, GK2312770, GK2401164, GK2401564, GK2403407, GK23081458, GK23081460 or GK23081462.
USA TODAY Recall Database: Search vehicle, product and food recalls
What should I do if I have a recalled iWalk Power Bank?
Consumers should stop using the devices and contact U2O Global for a refund:
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To get a refund: Take a photo of the recalled power bank, showing the model number and the serial number, with “Recalled” written on the power bank in permanent marker to U2O Global by email at service@iwalk.net.
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To dispose of the device: Recalled lithium-ion batteries must be disposed of differently than other batteries, because they present a greater risk of fire. Do not put the device in the trash, recycle it or put it in a used battery box. You probably want to contact your city or county public works department on local hazardous waste disposal procedures. iWalk suggests contacting your local collection center office to ask whether they accept recalled lithium-ion batteries.
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Mike Snider is a reporter on USA TODAY’s Trending team. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, X and email him at mikegsnider & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Power banks sold on Amazon recalled due to fire concerns
