Verizon Recalls 2.5 Million Mobile WiFi Hotspots Due to Fire Risk; Overheating, Fires, and Minor Burns Already Reported

By B.N. Frank

There are significant advantages to using hard-wired internet connections. Research has determined that exposure to WiFi is biologically harmful (see 1, 2, 3, 4). Wireless connections are also easier to hack (see 1, 2). In fact, some hackers are even capable of starting fires!

Verizon mobile hotspots are being recalled for overheating and fire risks; however, this seems to be due to battery issues.

From Fierce Wireless:

Verizon recalls 2.5 million mobile hotspots flagged as fire hazard

The recall impacts 2.5 million Ellipsis Jetpack mobile hotspots.

Ellipsis Jetpack mobile hotspot devices sold by Verizon have been recalled after it was determined the lithium-ion battery could overheat, creating a fire and burn hazard.

The recall impacts 2.5 million of the devices, imported by Franklin Wireless and sold from April 2017 through March 2021. It applies to models MHS900L, MHS900LS and MHS900LPP.

Verizon put out a statement Thursday, alongside a notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

“The safety of our customers is our highest priority. 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,” Verizon stated.

Verizon is exchanging the Ellipsis Jetpack mobile hotspots with an Orbic Speed.

Source: U.S. CPSC

According to the CPSC, Verizon received 15 reports of devices overheating. That includes six incidents of fire damage to bedding or flooring and two reports of minor burn injuries.

The devices were sold nationwide at Verizon stores, as well as other retailers, online and to some school districts. Schools that gave the mobile hotspots to students were contacted by Verizon with information on how to get new devices and return the recalled Ellipsis Jetpacks, according to CPSC.

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All wireless or WiFi devices emit harmful radiation (see 1, 2). This includes wireless baby monitors. Children seem to be particularly vulnerable to exposure. Many schools worldwide have already replaced WiFi with hardwired internet. At least one hospital has also removed WiFi from their pediatric and neonatal unit. Regardless, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is still promoting WiFi hotspots for remote student learning.

For more information on how to transition to a hardwired connection, click here.