Apple on Friday announced a voluntary exchange program for its older style European iPhone power adapter. In rare cases, the accessory may overheat and pose a safety risk according to the Cupertino-based technology giant.

The adapter in question, model A1300 with the letters "CE" in solid gray, was included with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S models shipped between October 2009 and September 2012 in more than 40 countries. It was also sold as a standalone accessory, Apple said.

The redesigned adapter is listed as model A1400 with the letters "CE" outlined in gray. If you already have this model adapter, there's no need to take action.

Those with the dated adapter, however, are encouraged to discontinue use immediately and charge the handset by connecting it via USB cable to a computer in the interim.

Faulty adapters can be exchanged at an Apple Retail Store or a participating Apple authorized service center free of charge. They'll need to verify the iPhone serial number as part of the exchange process so be sure to bring your iPhone with you.

Those who are unable to bring their adapter to a store should contact Apple Technical Support to arrange an exchange. Additionally, those that have already paid for a replacement due to this issue should reach out regarding a refund.

Adapters were shipped and sold in the following countries:

Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Vietnam.