The indian market is currently flooded with counterfeit mobile chargers that look nearly identical to the original ones. These fake accessories often come with attractive prices and convincing packaging, which makes them even harder to identify. However, using such chargers can be extremely dangerous. They can damage your smartphone’s motherboard, weaken or overheat the battery, disrupt internal circuits, and in severe cases, even cause short circuits, electric shocks, or fire hazards.

To protect your device — and your safety — here are some detailed checks that can help you identify a fake charger before it's too late:

1. Check the Packaging Quality

Original chargers come with high-quality packaging. Counterfeit products often have:

· Thin, flimsy boxes

· Poor printing quality

· Mismatched colors

· Irregular fonts or blurry labels

· Misspellings like “Samsang,” “Oppo Charger,” “Orignal,” etc.

A genuine charger’s packaging is neat, consistent, and cleanly printed.

2. Look for a BIS Certification

In India, all authentic chargers must carry a BIS (Bureau of indian Standards) certification mark.

· The BIS symbol should be clear, properly data-aligned, and easy to read.

· Fake chargers often use a distorted or fake BIS logo.

Without proper BIS certification, a charger is unsafe for use.

3. Inspect the Charging Plug and Cable Quality

Genuine chargers have:

· Securely fitted plugs

· Sturdy connectors

· Smooth edges

· Even weight distribution

Fake chargers tend to have:

· Loose pins

· Sharp or uneven edges

· Lightweight and hollow-feeling housings

· Cables that bend or fray easily

A real charger feels solid and durable in hand.

4. Verify the Branding and Labels

Check for:

· Proper brand logos

· Correct placement of serial numbers

· Accurate voltage and amperage specifications

· No spelling mistakes

Fake chargers often skip these details or copy them imperfectly.

5. Observe Charging Speed and Heating

After plugging in:

· If the charger heats up quickly, it’s a red flag.

· If the phone shows uneven or unusually slow charging, the charger is likely counterfeit.

· Fake chargers lack proper regulation chips and may supply unstable current.

This instability can degrade the battery significantly over time.

6. Compare the Price

If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

· Genuine branded chargers have a standard market price.

· Counterfeits are often sold at half or one-third the cost.

A small saving now can lead to expensive smartphone repairs later.

7. Buy Only From Trusted Sellers

To keep your device safe:

· Purchase chargers from authorized brand stores, reputable electronics shops, or verified online sellers.

· Avoid roadside stalls, local markets, or unknown websites selling unboxed or repacked chargers.

Why Using Fake Chargers Is Risky

Fake chargers often:

· Use low-quality components

· Lack voltage protection

· Fail to regulate currentThis can lead to:

· Battery swelling

· Short circuits

· Permanent internal damage

· fire hazards

· Even risk of electric shock

Final Takeaway

Identifying a fake charger is not always easy, but paying attention to the small details can save you from expensive repairs, safety hazards, and poor device performance. When in doubt, prioritize authenticity over low prices — your smartphone’s health and your personal safety are worth it.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.