Belkin Recalls Portable Power Banks and Wireless Charging Stands Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

What was recalled

On November 13, 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving portable electronic accessories manufactured by Belkin. This action targets specific models of portable power banks and wireless charging stands that were distributed to consumers across the United States and internationally. The core issue lies within the internal lithium-ion batteries used in these devices, which have been identified as defective due to their tendency to overheat during normal operation. This recall is not a minor quality control adjustment but a serious safety directive aimed at preventing potential fire hazards and burn injuries.

The affected products include two distinct types of devices: wireless charging stands and portable power banks. Specifically, the recall covers charging stands with the model number MMA008. If you have this item, you can identify it by looking at the bottom of the stand, where "MMA008" is printed. Additionally, certain charging stands feature serial numbers starting with "57X," which are also located on the bottom; these units are definitely included in the recall. These charging stands were sold exclusively in black.

The second category of recalled items consists of portable power banks, which come in two different model variations: BPB002 and PB0003. The BPB002 power banks can be identified by their model number printed on the back top of the device. Like the charging stands, specific BPB002 units with serial numbers starting with "35S" are included in this recall, though all serial numbers for other variants may also be affected. These BPB002 models were sold only in black. The PB0003 power banks have their model number printed on the back of the device and were available for purchase in both black and white colors. While the exact total number of units sold is not specified in this initial report, the scope of the recall covers all units matching these specific model and serial number criteria regardless of where they were originally purchased.

It is important to note that while the primary focus of this announcement is the U.S. market, the company has reported incidents internationally as well, suggesting a broader distribution network. Consumers who purchased these items from various retail outlets should carefully check the bottom or back of their devices for the specific model numbers and serial prefixes mentioned above. If your device matches any of the described identifiers, it falls under this safety recall, and immediate action is required to ensure your home remains safe from fire risks associated with overheating lithium-ion batteries.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at what happens inside the device when things go wrong. The core issue lies with the lithium-ion batteries packed into Belkin’s portable power banks and wireless charging stands. Lithium-ion technology is remarkable for its ability to store a lot of energy in a small space, which is why we rely on it for our phones and laptops. However, this high energy density comes with a specific risk: thermal runaway. This is a chain reaction that can occur when the battery’s internal temperature rises beyond a safe limit.

Under normal conditions, the battery’s internal separators keep the positive and negative components apart. If these batteries are manufactured with microscopic defects or if they are subjected to stress over time, those separators can fail. Once compromised, the internal components touch, creating an electrical short circuit. This short generates intense heat very quickly. Because the energy is trapped inside a sealed, compact case, that heat has nowhere to go. The temperature spikes rapidly, causing the chemicals inside the battery to break down and release gases. This buildup of pressure and heat is what leads to overheating.

This physical process directly creates the dangers cited in this recall: fire and burn hazards. When the internal temperature reaches critical levels, the device can become hot enough to cause serious skin burns simply through contact. More dangerously, the trapped gases can ignite, leading to a fire. While these devices are designed with safety features to prevent such events, the reality is that defects can slip through quality control. In this specific case, Belkin has identified that certain units have batteries prone to this overheating behavior.

The severity of this hazard is not just theoretical. The recall notice confirms that there have already been reports of these devices catching fire. While the number of U.S. incidents is currently low, the potential for harm is significant. A burning lithium-ion battery does not just smoke; it can flare up and spread to nearby flammable materials, such as furniture or curtains, leading to property damage. Furthermore, the extreme heat involved in thermal runaway can cause severe second- or third-degree burns to anyone holding or near the device when it fails.

It is important to note that this risk is inherent to the specific batch of batteries used in these models, not necessarily a flaw in how you use them. Even if you are charging your phone carefully and not overworking the device, the underlying battery defect remains. This is why simply turning the device off or unplugging it is not enough to eliminate the risk while the battery remains inside. The chemical instability persists until the dangerous component is removed from your home entirely.

Understanding this mechanism underscores why the remedy is so strict. You cannot repair a thermal runaway defect because it is embedded in the battery’s chemistry and physical structure. The only safe solution is to remove the source of the potential reaction. This is why Belkin is offering full refunds or store credits rather than repairs. We must get these unstable batteries out of our homes and into proper disposal channels that can handle the risk they pose, ensuring that a small convenience item does not become a household danger.

Who is most at risk

While the physical hazard of an overheating lithium-ion battery can affect anyone who owns or uses these Belkin devices, certain groups face a disproportionately higher level of danger due to the specific nature of the incident. The primary group at immediate physical risk includes anyone in close proximity to the device when it fails. Because the recall cites reports of fire and burn injuries, individuals who keep their power banks or wireless charging stands on nightstands, bedside tables, or within arm’s reach while sleeping are particularly vulnerable. During sleep, a person is less likely to notice the early warning signs of battery failure, such as unusual heat, swelling, or smoke, before the situation escalates into an open flame or severe burn. This latency in detection means that those who charge their devices overnight or keep them on soft surfaces like beds, couches, or carpets—materials that can trap heat and accelerate combustion—are at a significantly higher risk of serious injury than those who use them in clear, ventilated areas during waking hours.

Children and elderly individuals also require heightened attention in this context, not because they are more likely to cause the malfunction, but because they may be less capable of responding effectively to an emergency. Younger children might not recognize the danger of a hot device or fire, potentially touching it out of curiosity and suffering severe burns. Conversely, older adults may have slower reaction times or physical limitations that make it difficult to quickly move a burning object away from their body or property. The recall notes that incidents have resulted in minor burn injuries; for these demographics, even a "minor" thermal injury can lead to complications due to thinner skin or slower healing processes, turning a manageable incident into a significant medical concern.

Beyond physical vulnerability, there is a financial risk that disproportionately affects consumers who did not retain their original purchase receipts. The remedy offered by Belkin distinguishes between those with proof of purchase and those without. If you cannot provide a receipt, you are limited to the average sales price for the model. However, if you choose store credit instead of a cash refund, you receive 20 percent more than that average price. While this is a generous option, it ties your compensation to Belkin’s ecosystem rather than providing liquid funds that could be used to replace the device with a competitor’s product or cover other immediate needs. Therefore, consumers who are less organized with receipts may find their practical recovery options slightly more constrained compared to those who can prove exact purchase amounts.

Finally, pet owners and individuals living in densely furnished homes face an elevated risk of property damage. The reported international incidents included $37,765 in property damage, suggesting that these fires can spread beyond the device itself. If the recalled charging stand or power bank is left unattended in a cluttered space, near curtains, papers, or upholstery, the fire hazard expands from a personal injury risk to a significant home safety threat. The lithium-ion chemistry involved here presents a greater risk of rapid thermal runaway compared to standard batteries, meaning that anyone who stores these devices in enclosed spaces, such as drawers or bags, while they are still charging or recently charged is at heightened risk for both fire spread and subsequent burn injuries upon handling the hot device.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Because Belkin manufactures a wide variety of electronics, identifying whether your specific power bank or charging stand is part of this recall requires careful attention to the labels printed directly on the devices themselves. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has specified that only certain models and serial numbers are affected. If you do not see the exact model numbers listed below, your device is likely safe from this particular issue. However, if you have any of the following items, you must proceed with caution.

First, check for charging stands. The only charging stand included in this recall carries the model number MMA008. To verify this, turn the stand over and look at the bottom surface. You will find the model number printed there. Additionally, you must check the serial number, which is also located on the bottom of the stand. The serial number consists of 14 digits. This recall specifically targets units where the serial number starts with 57X. If your charging stand has the MMA008 model number but a serial number that does not begin with 57X, it is not part of this specific safety notice.

Next, inspect any portable power banks you own. There are two distinct model numbers for power banks included in this recall: BPB002 and PB0003. For the BPB002 model, look at the back top edge of the device to find the printed model number. Its serial number is located on the back of the power bank as well. This specific recall only applies if your serial number starts with 35S. If your power bank has the BPB002 model number but a different serial prefix, it is not included.

For the second type of recalled power bank, look for the model number PB0003, which is printed on the back of the device. Unlike the BPB002, all serial numbers for the PB0003 are included in this recall, regardless of what they start with. Visually, you can also help narrow down your search by color. The recalled charging stands (MMA008) and the BPB002 power banks were sold exclusively in black. The PB0003 power banks were available in both black and white. However, do not rely on color alone for identification; you must confirm the model and serial numbers printed on the device to be certain.

If you find one of these items in your home, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to open the casing or test it further. Instead, follow the remedy instructions provided by Belkin to secure a refund or store credit, ensuring safe disposal of the lithium-ion battery according to local hazardous waste guidelines.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

Belkin has structured the remedy for this recall to prioritize your financial recovery and safety over keeping a defective product. Because these items pose a significant fire risk, there is no option for a simple repair or a direct replacement unit. Instead, the company is offering two distinct paths for compensation: a full refund based on your original purchase price or store credit that exceeds the value of the item. This approach ensures that you are not left out of pocket while also providing an incentive to remain within their ecosystem if you choose to buy again.

To initiate any of these options, you must first contact Belkin directly. You can reach their recall support team by calling their toll-free number at 800-223-5546. These lines are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, and perhaps more efficiently for many users, you can submit your claim online. Belkin has dedicated pages for this specific recall: visit http://www.belkin.com/MMA008recall if you own the charging stand (model MMA008), or http://www.belkin.com/BPB002recall if you have the power bank (model BPB002). You can also navigate to their main site at https://www.belkin.com/ and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page.

When you submit your claim, Belkin requires you to upload photos showing both the front and back of the recalled device. This step is crucial for verification; it allows their team to confirm that you possess one of the affected models and serial numbers before processing any money. Your compensation amount depends largely on whether you can provide proof of purchase.

• If you have your receipt: You are entitled to a full refund for the exact amount listed on your purchase receipt. This is the most straightforward option, ensuring you get back exactly what you spent.
• If you do not have your receipt: Belkin will issue compensation based on the average sales price of that specific model. While this may be slightly less than what you originally paid, it provides a fair baseline value for the device.
• The store credit alternative: If you prefer to shop with Belkin again, you can choose to receive store credit instead of a cash refund. This option is financially advantageous, as the credit will be worth 20 percent more than the average sales price of the model. For example, if the average sales price is $50, your store credit would be valued at $60.

Please note that these remedies apply only to the defective lithium-ion batteries and devices themselves. Do not attempt to dispose of them in regular trash or curbside recycling bins, as this poses a severe fire hazard. Contact your local household hazardous waste center first to confirm they accept recalled lithium-ion batteries before bringing them in.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to feel reluctant to stop using a device that you rely on daily. Your Belkin portable power bank or wireless charging stand likely holds your phone’s lifeblood, keeping your GPS running during commutes and your flashlight ready for emergencies. The convenience of having extra power in your pocket or on your desk is immense, which makes the idea of disconnecting from it feel inconvenient at best. However, ignoring a recall notice for a lithium-ion battery product is not merely an administrative oversight; it is an active gamble with your physical safety and your property. The core issue here is thermal runaway, a specific type of failure in lithium-ion batteries where the internal temperature rises uncontrollably. Once this process begins, it can escalate rapidly, turning a small electronic device into a significant fire hazard.

The consequences of continuing to use these recalled items are not theoretical. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Belkin has already documented that this specific overheating issue has led to real-world harm. There have been confirmed reports of fires involving these models. While the number of reported incidents in the United States is currently listed as one, the scope of the problem appears to be global, with 15 additional reports from other countries. These are not just near-misses or technical glitches; they represent actual events where the device has failed catastrophically enough to ignite surrounding materials.

The physical toll of these failures is also documented. Beyond the property damage, which has totaled over $37,000 in reported cases outside the U.S., there have been injuries. Consumers have suffered minor burns from handling overheated devices or coming into contact with them during a fire event. While "minor" might sound reassuring, a burn injury is painful, can require medical attention, and often leaves lasting marks. Furthermore, property damage extends beyond just the device itself. A battery fire can quickly spread to nearby furniture, curtains, or other electronics, potentially leading to a larger house fire that endangers your entire household.

If you ignore this recall, you are essentially keeping a potential ignition source in your home without any of the safeguards that should be present. Lithium-ion batteries, when compromised, do not always show obvious warning signs before they fail. They may simply feel warm to the touch or swell slightly, but by the time visible smoke appears, it may be too late to prevent damage. The risk is compounded if you continue to charge the device, as the electrical current can accelerate the overheating process. By leaving the product in use, you are exposing yourself and your loved ones to a known, documented danger that has already caused injuries and financial loss for others. Taking five minutes now to pack it away safely is far less costly than dealing with the aftermath of a preventable fire.

Staying safe: broader tips

Lithium-ion batteries have become the standard power source for our modern lives, found in everything from our smartphones to electric vehicles. While they offer incredible energy density and convenience, they also carry unique risks that differ from older battery technologies. Understanding how to handle these devices daily can significantly reduce your risk of fire or injury, long after any specific recall has passed.

The most critical rule for any lithium-ion device is heat management. These batteries are highly sensitive to temperature extremes. Never leave your phone, power bank, or laptop in a hot car on a sunny day, as interior temperatures can rise rapidly enough to cause internal damage or swelling. Similarly, avoid charging devices under pillows, blankets, or heavy furniture. Lithium-ion batteries generate heat while charging; if that heat cannot escape into the air, it can build up until the battery’s safety mechanisms fail, potentially leading to a thermal event. Always charge your devices on hard, non-flammable surfaces like wood, tile, or stone where airflow is unimpeded.

Equally important is the integrity of your charging equipment. Using third-party chargers that do not meet established safety standards can bypass the voltage regulation systems designed to protect the battery. Stick to original manufacturer cables and adapters, or those certified by recognized testing laboratories. If you notice your power bank becoming unusually warm during normal use, stops charging entirely, or shows signs of physical deformation such as a bulging case, stop using it immediately. These are clear signals that the internal chemistry is compromised.

Proper disposal is another area where many consumers inadvertently create hazards. As seen in this recall, lithium-ion batteries must never be placed in curbside recycling bins or regular trash cans. If a battery punctures during collection, it can ignite fires in garbage trucks or processing facilities. Instead, look for local household hazardous waste (HHW) collection events or permanent drop-off centers. Many electronics retailers also offer free battery recycling programs. By ensuring these batteries are disposed of correctly, you protect waste management workers and the environment from preventable dangers.

Finally, stay proactive about product safety by registering your new electronics whenever possible. Manufacturers use registration data to contact you directly if a defect is discovered in future production batches. You can also monitor official government databases like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website for updates on recalls affecting products you own. A few minutes spent checking these resources periodically can provide peace of mind and ensure your home remains a safe place for your technology.