August 10, 2010

Asurion Recalls Counterfeit BlackBerry®-branded Batteries

Name of Product: Counterfeit BlackBerry®-branded cell phone batteries in refurbished devices

Units: About 470,000

Distributor: Asurion, of Smyrna, Tenn.

Hazard: The counterfeit batteries can overheat, posing burn and fire hazards.

Description: This recall involves only BlackBerry®-branded batteries provided with refurbished Blackberry®-branded devices. The refurbished devices were sent to consumers by Asurion through a handset protection program. The batteries were used across virtually all models of refurbished BlackBerry devices distributed by Asurion prior to November 1, 2009. Genuine Blackberry-branded batteries are not included in this recall. No other Asurion or BlackBerry products are involved in this recall.

Distributed through: Asurion as part of their handset protection claim program nationwide from March 2004 through October 2009.

Remedy: Consumers who received refurbished BlackBerry devices through Asurion prior to November 1, 2009 should immediately stop using the product and contact Asurion for a replacement product. Asurion is directly contacting known consumers with the affected batteries to notify them of this recall.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Asurion toll-free at (866) 384-9175 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.001batex.com