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Sony: Counterfeit PS3 controllers can explode

Sony has issued a consumer alert to those who may have purchased counterfeit PlayStation 3 controllers. According to the company, the products could ignite or explode.

Don Reisinger
CNET contributor Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
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Sony informed consumers this week that some counterfeit PlayStation 3 controllers could ignite or explode when used.

According to the company, counterfeit PlayStation 3 controllers, which Sony says are "identical in appearance to genuine PlayStation 3 wireless controllers," have started cropping up in the wild. The company said that the "quality, reliability, and safety of counterfeit products is uncertain."

But it gets worse. Those who have bought counterfeit PlayStation 3 controllers could put themselves in physical danger. According to Sony, the counterfeit products could "ignite or explode, resulting in injury or damage to the user, your PlayStation 3, or other property."

Sony didn't specify where counterfeit controllers are being sold. But the company did recommend that consumers stick with its own wireless controllers, which are available from a number of reputable retail outlets.