Burning Scandal: Fitbit Fined $12M After Smartwatches Reportedly Leave Users Scarred

Here’s the Story

In a shocking and infuriating scandal, Google-owned Fitbit has reportedly been slapped with a $12.25 million fine after its Ionic smartwatches allegedly left dozens of users with horrifying burn injuries. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reportedly revealed that Fitbit delayed reporting overheating issues with the watch’s lithium-ion batteries, despite receiving complaints as early as 2018. Victims were said to have suffered second- and third-degree burns, with 78 cases allegedly reported in the U.S. alone, including gruesome injuries that required medical treatment. Fitbit reportedly only recalled 1.7 million devices in 2022, years after the first reports surfaced. As part of the settlement, according to media reports, Fitbit must overhaul its safety compliance measures, but for many victims, the damage—both physical and emotional—has already been done. This scandal serves as a chilling reminder of the risks hidden in everyday technology.

Go Here for More

• Fox Business
• The Verge
• CBS News