A dodgy charger may be a quick fix at the time but it turns out that it's just not worth it in the long run.

A survey carried out by Electrical Safety First - in association with Apple - has found that 98% of fake or lookalike iPhone chargers put consumers at risk of lethal electric shock and fire.

According to the new study, 49 out of 50 chargers purchased failed the safety tests that were carried out by the company.

They were subjected to mechanical and safety tests, which found that:

• All but one failed one or more of the tests
• More than 33% of chargers failed every part of the safety screening.
• Almost half (23) failed an electric strength test, posing a severe risk of electric shock.
• Internal examination also revealed almost half also failed basic safety requirements and contained sub-standard internal components or inadequate spacing

Technical Director for the company, Martyn Allen, said the results were "extremely concerning".

"This report shows that anyone purchasing an iPhone charger from an online marketplace or at an independent discount store is taking a serious risk with their safety.

"When you buy a fake, at best you could damage your phone but at worst you could be putting your life, your family and your home at risk.”

His tips for spotting a fake charger:

• Check for the 'CE mark' or spelling errors on the plug.
• The USB port on a counterfeit charger may be upside down, or in a different place.
• Fake chargers will be slightly lighter than genuine ones.

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