Fake energy-saving devices that claim to cut electricity bills could actually put users at risk of electric shocks and fires.
Electrical Safety First (ESF) said 13 devices purchased from AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, and TikTok Shop all failed basic safety tests and could pose a serious danger if used in UK homes.
Two of the items exploded when tested.
The charity warned that the products, which claim to reduce electricity consumption by stabilising household voltage, contain no components capable of delivering the promised savings.
All 13 devices also failed to meet the required dimensional and mechanical strength requirements due to the plug pins.
Some devices had no fuse or internal protection, increasing the risk of fire and electric shock, while others used glass fuses that could shatter.
Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, said: "Unscrupulous third-party sellers on online marketplaces are exploiting the financial pressures facing households, promoting bogus products that prey on people’s understandable desire to save money on their energy bills.
"At a time when household budgets are already being squeezed, consumers should be able to trust that products being sold to them are safe and do what they claim.
"But our investigation exposes these so-called energy-saving devices for what they really are: worthless products that deliver no savings while potentially putting people at serious risk of electric shock or fire."
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Mr Capanna said: "Shopping through online marketplaces in the UK is currently far too dangerous.
"Time and time again, our investigations uncover dangerous products being sold on these platforms, despite their claims that customer safety is a priority.
"We need bold and robust, legally enforceable measures that make platforms responsible for the safety of products sold on their sites.
"Without urgent action, dangerous products will continue to put consumers’ lives at risk."
The warning comes as energy bills reach a three-year high due to a 4% rise in Ofgem’s energy price cap, with forecasters predicting a further significant hike from January 1.
ESF said tens of thousands of the unsafe devices may already have been sold to UK shoppers.
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AliExpress told the charity it had removed the five listings identified in the investigation and was contacting affected customers to initiate a recall.
What to do if you get an electric shock
If you get an electric shock, there are five things you must do immediately, according to St John's Ambulance.
- Stop any contact with the electrical source
- Do not touch the electrical source
- Turn the source off or move it away from you
- Perform the primary survey when contact is broken
- Call 999 or 112 (will contact the same 999 handlers)
Anyone who experiences an electric shock could have burns or a cardiac arrest.
It's crucial that you don't touch the casualty if they are still touching the electrical source, as you could also be electrocuted.
A spokesperson for AliExpress said: "Product safety is our top priority at AliExpress.
"We have removed the five listings identified by Electrical Safety First and are contacting affected customers to initiate a recall through our established channels.
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"We are also reviewing the broader category for enhanced controls.
"We welcome detailed findings like these and remain committed to ensuring a safe online shopping environment."
Amazon and TikTok also confirmed that the flagged products had been removed from sale.
How do you cut your energy bills? Tell us your top tips in the comments below.
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