VC Group Recalls Wireless Portable Power Banks with Lithium-Ion Batteries Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

What was recalled

In early March 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving wireless portable power banks manufactured by VC Group. These devices are marketed under the brand name "Velvet Caviar" and are designed to provide convenient, on-the-go charging for electronic devices that support MagSafe technology, such as specific models of smartphones and earphones. While portable power banks have become an essential accessory for many people who rely heavily on their mobile devices throughout the day, this particular batch has been identified as posing serious safety risks that necessitate immediate attention from consumers.

The scope of this recall is precise but affects a notable number of units. Approximately 5,000 wireless portable power banks with a capacity of 5,000 mAh are included in this voluntary recall action. To help you determine if your specific device is part of this safety alert, it is crucial to examine the physical characteristics of the unit closely. The recalled power banks feature "Velvet Caviar" engraved on the front plate and printed on the bottom back surface. Furthermore, each unit should bear a model number designated as ZHX-PB21. These identifiers are key markers that distinguish the affected products from those in the broader Velvet Caviar product line.

In addition to the brand name and model number, you must check for Purchase Order (PO) numbers located on the back of the device. The recall specifically lists PO numbers ranging from 1 through 10, which appear as PO-PP001 to PO-PP010. However, it is important to note a critical detail: power packs that do not have any PO number printed on them are also subject to this recall. This means that if you cannot find one of the specified PO numbers, your device may still be part of the affected group and should be treated with caution.

These recalled items were sold as wireless portable charging solutions, emphasizing their compatibility with MagSafe-compatible phones and earphones. The presence of these specific features—wireless charging capability, MagSafe compatibility, and the 5,000 mAh capacity—combined with the branding and model details mentioned above, defines the exact product scope. If you own a Velvet Caviar power bank that matches these descriptions, it falls under the umbrella of this recall issued by VC Group on March 20, 2025. Understanding exactly what was recalled is the first step in ensuring your safety and obtaining a free replacement.

The hazard, explained

When we talk about lithium-ion batteries in devices like the recalled VC Group power banks, we are dealing with a complex chemical system that is generally safe when functioning correctly but can become volatile if something goes wrong inside. The core issue here involves "thermal runaway." To understand this, it helps to look at what happens inside the battery cell. These batteries store energy by moving lithium ions between two electrodes. Under normal conditions, this movement is controlled and reversible. However, if the internal chemistry is compromised—due to a manufacturing defect, physical damage, or electronic failure—the battery can begin to generate heat faster than it can dissipate it.

In the case of these specific wireless portable power banks, the recall notice indicates that the lithium-ion batteries can overheat and ignite. This is not just a matter of the device getting uncomfortably warm; it is a cascading failure. As the internal temperature rises, it can cause the separator between the anode and cathode to break down. Once that barrier fails, the battery experiences an internal short circuit. This releases a massive amount of energy in a very short time, leading to rapid heating. The heat can then ignite the electrolyte inside the cell, which is often flammable. This is why the hazard is described as both fire and burn risks: you are dealing with open flames or intense heat that can cause serious injury if the device is in your hand or pocket.

The reports to the CPSC confirm this mechanism in action. VC Group has received 19 reports of these products overheating or catching fire, resulting in 10 minor injuries. While "minor" might sound reassuring, it underscores how quickly these incidents can escalate. The heat generated during thermal runaway can reach temperatures high enough to cause second- or third-degree burns on contact. Furthermore, because these are wireless portable units designed to be carried close to the body or used while charging sensitive electronics like MagSafe-compatible phones and earphones, the proximity increases the risk of injury. A fire in a small, enclosed plastic casing can also lead to bursting or shrapnel, adding physical trauma to the thermal hazard.

It is important to distinguish this from a simple battery drain. A normal power bank will simply stop working when its charge is depleted. A defective lithium-ion battery, however, may exhibit warning signs such as excessive heat, swelling, or an unusual odor before it ignites. However, relying on these warnings is dangerous because the transition from overheating to ignition can happen in seconds. The hazard is not just that the device stops working; it is that the energy storage mechanism itself becomes unstable and turns into a source of uncontrolled heat and fire.

This class of hazard is particularly concerning in portable electronics because users often assume that because a device is "wireless" and "portable," it is inherently safer or more isolated from risks. In reality, the compact size means that if thermal runaway occurs, there is less material to absorb the heat, allowing temperatures to spike more rapidly than in larger, stationary devices. The recalled units, which feature "Velvet Caviar" engraving and model number ZHX-PB21, are no exception to this physical reality. Understanding that the danger lies in the internal chemical instability helps explain why simply turning the device off is not enough—you must remove the source of potential energy entirely from your environment.

Who is most at risk

The primary group at risk for this specific recall consists of individuals who own and actively use the Velvet Caviar wireless portable power banks with model number ZHX-PB21. Because these devices are designed to charge MagSafe-compatible phones and earphones, they are likely in the possession of tech-savvy consumers, commuters, travelers, and professionals who rely on mobile devices for work or leisure. The hazard is not limited to a specific age group but rather applies to anyone carrying this particular 5,000 mAh battery pack, especially those who purchase items under PO numbers 1 through 10 (PO-PP001 to PO-PP010) or any unit lacking a visible PO number entirely. Since the defect involves the internal lithium-ion battery overheating and igniting, the risk is inherent to the product's function: as you charge your devices, the battery generates heat. For most users, this warmth is normal, but in these recalled units, that heat can escalate rapidly without warning.

While anyone using the device faces the immediate threat of fire or burns, certain individuals may be more vulnerable to severe outcomes due to their physical environment or mobility. Children are particularly at risk because they often handle electronics with less caution and may place the power bank in close proximity to their bodies, such as in pockets, backpacks against their backs, or under pillows while sleeping. If a battery ignites in these confined spaces, the heat concentration increases dramatically, leading to faster and more severe burn injuries. Furthermore, children may not recognize the early signs of a malfunctioning battery, such as unusual warmth or swelling, until it is too late.

Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face heightened risks. If a fire occurs while they are sleeping or resting, their ability to react quickly and escape the danger zone may be compromised. Additionally, people with sensitive skin or conditions that affect nerve sensation might not feel the initial stages of overheating as acutely as others, delaying their response time. The recall notes 10 minor injuries from 19 reported incidents, suggesting that while severe harm has been avoided so far, the potential for serious injury remains high if the battery ignites in close contact with skin or flammable materials like bedding, upholstery, or clothing. Therefore, it is crucial to treat this hazard as an immediate threat to all users, regardless of age, and to remove the device from daily use immediately.

• Commuters and Travelers: Those who carry the power bank in bags or pockets during transit are at risk if the battery ignites while unattended or in close contact with other items that could catch fire.
• Bedroom Users: Individuals who charge their devices overnight in bed are at significant risk, as flammable materials like sheets and pillows can accelerate a fire.
• Households with Children: Families with young children must ensure the device is kept out of reach to prevent accidental handling or placement near vulnerable bodies.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Because these power banks are designed to look sleek and unassuming, telling whether yours is part of this specific recall requires a careful, close-up inspection. The good news is that VC Group has included several distinct markers on the device itself. You do not need to guess; you can confirm your status by looking for very specific text engravings and printed labels. Start by turning the power bank over to examine the back plate. This is where the primary identification details live. Look closely at the front surface as well, because the brand name "Velvet Caviar" is engraved on the front plate of every unit in this recall.

Flip the device over again and look at the bottom of the back casing. You should see the brand name "Velvet Caviar" printed there as well. Directly below or near that branding, you need to find the model number. The specific model affected by this safety notice is ZHX-PB21. If your device does not have this exact model number, it may be a different product line, but if it does, read on. Next, look for Purchase Order numbers. These are marked as PO-PP001 through PO-PP010 on the back of the unit. Find the specific PO number stamped or printed near the bottom edge.

Here is a crucial detail that many people might miss: if your power pack does not have a PO number at all, it is still subject to this recall. The absence of a PO number does not mean you are safe; it means your unit falls into the broader category of affected items. So, whether you see a PO number between PP001 and PP010 or no PO number whatsoever, combined with the model ZHX-PB21 and "Velvet Caviar" branding, you have a recalled item.

To be absolutely certain, verify the capacity as well. These are 5,000 mAh wireless portable power banks designed for MagSafe compatible phones and earphones. If your device matches these specifications and bears the identified markings, stop using it immediately. Do not rely on the packaging alone, as labels can be lost or discarded. The physical engravings and prints on the battery unit itself are your only reliable source of truth in this situation.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that your wireless portable power bank is part of this recall, the first and most important step toward resolving the issue is to stop using the device immediately. The remedy provided by VC Group for this specific hazard is a free replacement power bank. This is not merely a suggestion; it is the official corrective action designed to ensure your safety while allowing you to continue using their charging products without the risk associated with the defective units. By opting for a replacement, you are effectively trading in a potentially dangerous item for one that has been verified as safe, eliminating the fire and burn risks identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

To receive your free replacement, VC Group has established a specific verification process to ensure that only legitimate owners of the recalled units participate. You will need to visit their dedicated recall page at https://velvetcaviar.com/pages/magsafe-battery-pack-recall. On this site, you will be required to provide photographic evidence of your device before it can be processed for a replacement. This step is crucial for inventory control and safety verification. When taking these photographs, please ensure that the word "Recalled" is clearly written on the power bank using a permanent marker. This marking helps distinguish the hazardous units from safe inventory and confirms to the company that you have ceased use of the defective item.

Once you have prepared your marked power bank for disposal and taken the necessary photos, upload them to the website mentioned above. After your submission is reviewed and approved, VC Group will send you a new, safe power bank at no cost to you. This process is designed to be straightforward, but it does require your active participation in documenting the defective unit. If you encounter any difficulties with the online portal or have questions about the replacement procedure that are not answered on the website, you can contact VC Group directly via email at recall@velvetcaviar.com. Alternatively, you may navigate to www.velvetcaviar.com and click on the "Recalls" link located in the bottom banner of the homepage for further assistance.

It is equally important to understand what to do with the old unit once you have secured your replacement. You should not attempt to repair the recalled power bank yourself, nor should you try to sell or give it away. The remedy explicitly states that these batteries must be disposed of in accordance with local and state regulations. Because these are lithium-ion batteries that have been identified as potentially hazardous, they require special handling. Do not throw the recalled power bank in your regular household trash, and do not deposit it in standard used battery recycling boxes found at retail or home improvement stores. Instead, follow the procedures established by your municipal recycling center for damaged, defective, or recalled lithium batteries to ensure safe disposal.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about throwing away a functional-looking device, especially one that has served you well for charging your phone or earbuds. You might tell yourself that the risk is low, or that you will just be careful with it. However, ignoring this recall carries serious and immediate physical dangers that go far beyond simply losing the value of the device. The core issue here is not a software glitch or a battery that drains too quickly; it is a fundamental failure in thermal safety. When the lithium-ion battery inside these specific VC Group power banks overheats, it does not just stop working—it can ignite. This means continuing to use the unit exposes you and your home to an active fire hazard.

The reality of this risk is backed by troubling data from the manufacturer’s own reports. VC Group has already documented 19 separate incidents where these power banks either overheated significantly or caught fire entirely. More concerning still, these malfunctions have resulted in 10 reported minor injuries to consumers. While "minor" sounds reassuring on paper, burns and scalds are painful, can lead to infection, and often require medical attention. These injuries did not happen because users were doing something wildly unsafe; they happened while the devices were performing their intended function. If you continue to use a recalled unit, you are essentially rolling the dice with that same volatile battery chemistry. The defect does not fix itself over time; in fact, lithium-ion batteries that have shown signs of thermal instability can become increasingly unpredictable as they age or are subjected to charging cycles.

Beyond the direct threat to your personal safety, there is a significant risk of property damage. A power bank is designed to be portable and often kept close to flammable materials—your bed, your couch cushions, your desk papers, or your curtains. If the battery ignites while you are sleeping, away from home, or simply distracted by another task, the fire can spread rapidly before you even realize what is happening. Unlike a smoke alarm that might give you time to escape, a lithium battery fire often produces intense heat and toxic fumes in seconds. By ignoring this recall, you are not just risking a burn; you are risking the safety of your entire household and potentially your neighbors if the fire spreads through walls or shared ventilation systems.

Furthermore, there is the issue of improper disposal risks. Many people, upon deciding to discard a broken electronic device, may instinctively throw it in the regular trash or drop it into a generic battery recycling bin at a store. This is dangerous. As noted in the recall details, these defective lithium batteries must be handled differently than standard batteries. If you ignore the instructions and dispose of them incorrectly, you risk causing fires in waste management facilities or on garbage trucks. The consequences of ignoring this recall are not abstract; they are immediate, physical, and potentially devastating to your health and property.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a defect in certain VC Group power banks, the underlying hazard—lithium-ion battery failure—is a concern for anyone who carries portable chargers, smartphones, or laptops. Understanding how to handle these devices proactively can significantly reduce your risk of fire or injury in daily life. The primary danger with lithium-ion batteries is thermal runaway, a condition where internal short circuits cause the battery temperature to rise uncontrollably, potentially leading to ignition. This process can be triggered by physical damage, manufacturing defects, or improper charging habits. By adopting a few simple, evidence-based habits, you can keep your electronics safe without needing to panic about every device you own.

First, always use the charger and cable that came with your device or certified replacements. Third-party chargers that are not UL-listed or do not meet strict safety standards may lack the necessary circuitry to regulate voltage and current correctly. When a battery is charged too quickly or with inconsistent power, it generates excess heat. If you notice your power bank becoming unusually warm during use, even if it feels only slightly hot, unplug it immediately. Normal operation produces mild warmth; excessive heat is a clear warning sign that the internal chemistry is stressed. Never leave portable chargers plugged in overnight or unattended while charging, as this removes your ability to react to early signs of trouble like swelling, discoloration, or strange odors.

Physical care is equally important. Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to impact and puncture. Avoid dropping your power bank or placing heavy objects on top of it, as internal damage can create short circuits that may not manifest until hours or days later. Additionally, keep these devices away from extreme temperatures. Do not leave them in a hot car on a sunny day or expose them to direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat accelerates chemical degradation within the battery, increasing the likelihood of failure over time.

Finally, stay informed about product safety. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a public database of recalls that is updated regularly. Consider signing up for email alerts from the CPSC or following their social media channels to receive immediate notifications about new recalls. If you purchase electronics from lesser-known brands or online marketplaces, check the manufacturer’s website periodically for safety notices. Proper disposal is also critical; when your devices reach the end of their life, take them to a certified e-waste recycling center. Never throw lithium batteries in the regular trash, as crushing them in garbage trucks can cause fires that endanger sanitation workers and property.

• Use only certified chargers and cables for all portable electronics.
• Stop using any device that swells, smells like chemicals, or gets excessively hot.
• Protect batteries from physical impact and extreme temperatures.
• Register your products with manufacturers to receive direct safety notifications.