Lenovo is recalling a USB-C laptop power bank due to a risk of it overheating and catching fire.
The power bank in question is called the Lenovo USB USB-C Laptop Power Bank and has the model number PBLG2W. It contains a 20,000mAh battery and was sold through a wide range of retailers across the US and Canada between May 2022 and January 2023 for $100.
The risk of fire is caused by screws inside the power bank coming loose, which can cause a short circuit and lead to the lithium-ion battery overheating. The affected units have the manufacturing date 22/01, 22/02, 22/03, 22/04, 22/05 or 22/06, and the part number 40ALLG2WWW. This information can be found printed on the back of the power bank and there's further detail available on the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPSC) website.
Lenovo and the USCPSC are urging consumers to stop using the power bank immediately and contact Lenovo toll-free at 866-989-0515 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Alternatively, it's possible to email Lenovo at recalls@lenovo.com, or visit the dedicated Lenovo recall web page. You'll get a free replacement shipped out and instructions on how to properly dispose of the faulty unit.
With the size of the battery inside this power bank, you definitely don't want to keep it anywhere near your laptop or carry it in a bag with other items. Also, please don't throw it away as it could still catch fire or even explode after being thrown in the trash and being damaged further.