Earlier today, Verizon announced that they are already working with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). They are recalling 2.5 million hotspot devices that were discovered to overheat and pose fire and burn hazards.
To be more specific, the hotspot devices they are recalling are the Ellipsis Jetpack mobile hotspot models MHS900L, MHS900LS, and MHS900LPP. Although they have different model numbers, they are actually for the same device. The only thing that differentiates these models is whether they are under a prepaid or postpaid plan. The hotspot devices were previously imported by Franklin Wireless Corp. and sold between the dates April 2017 and March 2021.
“The safety of our customers is our highest priority,” shared Verizon in a statement. “We are taking the situation very seriously, and we are working diligently to determine the cause of the issues with the supplier and to provide replacement devices for all of our customers, free of charge.”
The recall comes after Verizon received 15 reports of these hotspot devices overheating. Among these reports, six involved fire damage to flooring or bedding. Two of these incidents included minor burn injuries to the user.
According to Verizon, around 1.3 million hotspot devices are currently being used by customers. The demand for such devices grew over the past year due to the number of individuals who purchased them to use to work or study remotely.
Verizon has already sent out a software update to affected devices to help minimize the risk of overheating. Big Red also recommends switching off these devices when they’re not in use and to keep them uncovered and flat on a surface. It’s also best not to expose the device to extreme temperatures for a long period of time to avoid overheating.
Since the recall involves the entire device and not just the batteries, Verizon recommends users not to try removing the batteries by themselves. A recall is already in place so users can simply request for a replacement hotspot device by visiting this website or calling 855-205-2627.
