
A mobile wireless hotspot device sold by Verizon is the subject of a recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) over concerns that the devices could burst into flames.
The device, known as the Ellipsis Jetpack, was imported by a company called Franklin Wireless for sale to Verizon customers. The hotspot allows Verizon customers with an eligible data plan to connect to the company’s 4G LTE network.
The CPSC says Verizon has received 15 reports of Ellipsis Jetpack devices overheating, including six reports of hotspots that caused fire damage and two that caused minor burn injuries.
More than 2.5 million of these hotspot devices were sold at Verizon stores and distributed to businesses and schools between April 2017 and March 2021, the CPSC. They were sold for between $50 and $150 a piece, though some students or parents may have received them through their schools.
Affected consumers and businesses who have the devices are asked to contact Verizon for a free replacement device by calling 1-855-205-2627 or by visiting http://www.ellipsisjetpackrecall.expertinquiry.com/.