Asurion Recalls Almost Half A Million Counterfeit BlackBerry Batteries

Battery Recall AsurionAsurion is a “Technology Protection Company” which powers the warranty service many carriers provide. Sturta let us know that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a product recall on 470,000 counterfeit BlackBerry batteries that Asurion shipped out in refurbished devices.

These batteries can overheat and were recalled due to burn and fire hazards. Asurion received two reports of counterfeit BlackBerry-branded batteries overheating, causing minor burns to a consumer’s finger and minor property damage to a sofa and car seat which is kind of crazy.

The recall involves counterfeit BlackBerry branded batteries that Asurion sent out with refurbished BlackBerrys across all models until November 1st, 2009. Genuine BlackBerry batteries do not have an issue.

According to the CPSC:

Consumers who received refurbished BlackBerry devices through Asurion prior to November 1, 2009 should immediately stop using the product and contact Asurion for a replacement product. Asurion is directly contacting known consumers with the affected batteries to notify them of this recall.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Asurion toll-free at (866) 384-9175 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s website at www.001batex.com

Talk about a double whammy. Not only are the batteries overheating they are also counterfeit! RIM must be pissed at Asurion right about now…

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