Affected products include USB charging cables, battery chargers, office fee equipment and other inexpensive accessories. A particularly problematic product, according to CNN, was the sound-capable microwave that “started sparking and smoking” as soon as CNN turned on researchers tapped to investigate the product.
CNN notes that in some cases the product in question was not used when it appeared to catch fire or overheat. The source of the issues was not immediately clear. But the problems for some products were so widespread that they were reported by dozens of people who bought the same items.
Amazon has since discontinued some of the products identified by CNN, but has continued to sell other items named in the report – many customers say even then the product has melted, sparked or is a safety hazard.
In a statement, an Amazon spokesman said “safety is a priority,” and the company “believes AmazonBasics is safe to use microwaves.” The spokesman said the device continues to meet or enhance all certification requirements established by the FDA, UL, FCC, Prop 65 and others for safety and efficiency. Amazon also drew attention to a recent blog post about the safety of AmazonBasics.
