Will I get electrocuted if I use my phone while it’s charging?

If using your phone while it’s plugged wasn’t generally safe, half the world would’ve been fried by now. So no, you probably won’t get blasted across the room for scrolling TikTok while your phone charges. And I said “probably” because the chances are slim but never a 0.

Your charger isn’t pumping raw lightning into your phone

A normal charger converts the electricity from your wall into a low voltage your phone can actually handle. You’re using around 5 to 20 volts depending on the charger. That’s nowhere near enough to electrocute you unless something is very, very wrong.

The horror stories come from dodgy chargers

You know those mystery chargers from market stalls, Wish or the drawer with all those it-should-work cables? Those are the ones to be suspicious of. Cheap, unregulated chargers can fail, overheat, spark or send the wrong voltage into your device. Worst case, they can shock you or set something on fire. That’s why legit brands keep banging on about safety certifications.

Damaged cables are an actual hazard

If your charger has wires sticking out, electrical tape around the neck or bent pins, it’s time to bin it. Electricity and exposed wiring aren’t a fun combo.

Phones can get hot while charging

Using your phone while it’s warming up is still fine. Your phone will usually slow itself down or stop charging to protect the battery. That’s a battery issue, not an electrocution issue though. And if it gets so hot you could fry an egg on it, unplug it.

So, when is using your phone while charging unsafe?

• You’re using a fake charger
• The cable is visibly damaged
• The charger is overheating
• You’re in a bath (obviously!)
• Your phone has water damage and you’re plugging it in anyway (please don’t!)

Otherwise? You’re fine. Text, scroll, play games, doomscroll, whatever. You’re not going to get electrocuted from a functioning, safe charger.

However, if your phone is overheating, charging slowly or simply acting possessed, it might be time for a new cable, a new charger or… a new phone. You know where to find us ;-)