Sony Ericsson has identified a possible fault with one of its UK 3-pin mobile phone chargers. There have been a limited number of incidents in the UK, where a pressure build-up in the charger has caused the top plastic part of the charger to break off, with the danger of hitting someone. If the charger does break apart, the electronics of the charger may be exposed thereby creating a risk of giving a person touching these parts an electric shock. In such circumstance, there could also be a risk of fire, if the charger is in proximity of flammable material.

The series of chargers which may malfunction is limited to the 3-pin UK charger made by Delta with identification number BML 162099/3 R1A. The identification number and "Made in Thailand by Delta" is printed on the socket-face of the charger (the side that faces the wall when plugged in).

Even though there have been only a few reported cases of malfunction, Sony Ericsson places very high importance upon product quality and safety and so, as a precautionary measure, it has decided to activate a recall process to have all potentially failing units returned.

The charger has been included with the following Sony Ericsson phone models: T68i, T300, T310, T610 and the Bluetooth handsfree accessories HBH-30 and HBH-65. It has also been sold separately as an accessory.

Consumers who identify having a 3-pin UK charger made by Delta with identification number BML 162099/3 R1A, should either visit their retailer for a replacement or call the Sony Ericsson customer care centre. Customers who have experienced problems with their chargers should stop using the charger, remove it from the socket and contact Sony Ericsson customer care centre. A free replacement will be despatched as soon as possible, together with a pre paid envelope for the user to return the charger to Sony Ericsson for inspection.

UK customers should contact: 08705 237 237 Monday to Friday between 9.00 am to 6.00pm and on Saturday between 9.00 am to 5.00pm. Please note that this customer care centre will not be fully operational until Monday 8th September.