2.5 Million Verizon Mobile Hotspot Devices Recalled For Fire, Burn Risks

KEY POINTS

Verizon is recalling its Ellipsis Jetpack Mobile Hotspots
There have been 15 reports of batteries overheating
Consumers should keep it away from other combustibles

Verizon has recalled about 2.5 million units of Ellipsis Jetpack Mobile Hotspots because they pose fire and burn risks. Those who have already purchased the product can get it replaced for free.

The company said the lithium-ion batteries used in the mobile hotspots can overheat. It has received 15 reports of overheating, six of which resulted in fire damage, while two caused minor burns to users, Verizon said in a recall notice posted on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website.

"We will be working with customers to exchange their Jetpacks for an Orbic Speed device, free of charge," Verizon said in a statement. "Verizon is taking the situation very seriously and we are working with the device supplier to investigate the cause of these incidents."

About 2.5 million units were affected by the recall. They were sold nationwide and online from April 2017 to March 2021. Some schools also provided the recalled product to their students.

The company has given instructions to the schools regarding how to return the affected item and acquire replacement hotspots for free. Parents of the children who received the device can contact the schools.

#Recall: 2.5 million @Verizon Ellipsis Jetpack mobile hotspots imported by Franklin Wireless. Li-on battery can overheat, fire/burn hazards. Six reports of fire damage. Given out by schools to students for Internet access at home. Get free replacement: https://t.co/s8pwEYqgPC pic.twitter.com/UDyz49QDjg
— US Consumer Product Safety Commission (@USCPSC) April 8, 2021

"The recalled Jetpacks are dark navy plastic oval devices that are about 3.5 inches wide and 2.25 inches tall," the recall notice said. "'Verizon' is printed below the digital display window on the front of the device."

The chargers of the recalled products also have a sticker with the label "Compatible: FWC MHS900L, Model: FWCR900TVL, DC151030."

In the statement, the company also provided instructions on how to get the automatic software updates and receive the IMEI number that "will help" the users to get the product replaced.

Until it is replaced, customers should turn the device off, unplug it and keep it away from children. It should also be placed on a hard surface that's away from other combustible objects, preferably in a location with proper ventilation.

Those with questions can contact the company's recall hotline at 855-205-2627.