Journalists from SlashGear have warned users about the risks associated with improper storage of old smartphones. Many are accustomed to placing unused devices in desk drawers or leaving them on shelves, believing that a turned-off phone poses no danger. However, this is not entirely true.
- Old Smartphones at Home Can Catch Fire: Experts Warn
- Danger in the Drawer: Why You Shouldn't Store Old Phones
- Your Old Smartphone is a 'Ticking Time Bomb': What You Need to Know
According to specialists, even a non-working smartphone can pose a potential threat due to its battery. They refer to such devices as a 'ticking time bomb.'
The main issue is related to lithium-ion batteries, which inevitably degrade over time. During the degradation process, they become less stable and more prone to overheating. Under certain conditions, this can lead to self-ignition and, consequently, a fire.
As an example, journalists cited the case of popular blogger Arun Maini, known for his YouTube channel Mrwhosetheboss, which has an audience of over 22 million subscribers. He keeps dozens of smartphones at home, and during an unusual heatwave in the UK, several of them unexpectedly caught fire.
Experts note that such situations are not exceptions. When improperly stored, old devices can indeed pose a risk.
To reduce the likelihood of problems, specialists recommend charging the battery to about 50% before long-term storage. This is considered the optimal level at which the battery is less prone to degradation.
Additionally, experts advise against using outdated smartphones to access the internet. Old devices often do not receive security updates and remain vulnerable to modern cyberattacks.
Thus, even a forgotten phone in a drawer can pose a danger — both to home safety and to your data.
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