481,000 power banks recalled over fire, explosion danger: CPSC

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Federal officials are urging people nationwide to immediately stop using a type of portable charging device as it may start fires or explode.

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) shared a recall on Sept. 18 for Anker Power Banks. The recall includes 481,000 of the power banks which contain lithium-ion batteries that can overheat, posing a risk to consumers in the form of fire and burn hazards.

The CPSC encourages people to "immediately stop using the recalled power banks" that have model numbers A1647, A1652, A1257, A1681 and A1689. The power banks can be used as portable charging devices for smartphones, laptops and tablets with 22.5W, 7.5W, 22.5W and 30W maximum output.

Anker has received 33 reports of the recalled power packs involved in fires or explosions. Four people have been injured with burns while one report of "substantial property damage" has been reported in connection to power banks.

The CPSC said the power banks were sold at retail store locations nationwide between August 2023 and June 2025 for prices between $30 and $50. Retail stores like Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Amazon distributed the recalled products.

People who have purchased one of the recalled power banks should visit the Anker's recall website to verify the product in their possession is included in the recall. Consumers can contact Anker Innovations Limited to receive a full refund or gift card to be used for other Anker products. To qualify for the refund or gift card, you will need to send in a photo of the recalled power bank that shows its model and serial numbers, full name, date of the photograph and the word "recalled" written on the power bank in permanent marker.

The CPSC said people should avoid throwing away the power banks or putting them in used battery recycling boxes as lithium-ion batteries need to be disposed of properly to reduce the risk of starting a fire.

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