CNET News.com
By Ben Charny
June 25, 2004

Verizon Wireless has recalled 50,000 cell phone batteries, some of which may be counterfeit, after reports suggesting that they may cause minor fires and injuries.

The TM-510 batteries, which carry the LG Mobile Phones brand, don't have the circuitry normally installed to prevent overcharging, according to a notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which issued the recall with Verizon. When they are charged, the batteries can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to users, according to the notice, issued Thursday.

There have been 18 such incidents, all involving batteries purchased separately from the phones as spares or replacements, Verizon said. In some events, the phones became hot enough to sear the seats and floorboards in a car or cause a minor personal injury, the company added.

[ Read More ]