Socket making cracking sounds?

[hellowintergoodbyesummer]

Does anyone know what this is please? I've googled it and says this can cause a fire!

Call an electrician.
It is most likely a grounding wire come loose behind the socket and as it flexes when you use it, the wire comes in contact with a metal screw or another exposed wire or something making the cracking noise. The noise is electricity being discharged. It can also spark (fire risk) or if you have a metal socket plate, electrocute/shock you if you are touching the metal and the loose wire touches that.

So best to call an electrician right away to make it safe.

Loose wire in socket. The cracklings sound is electricity discharging. Call an electrician. Don’t touch it.

I have this when I remove a plug and a few sparks ?

Don't use that socket until an electrician has made it safe.

Same for you Caroline.

Ok thank you I will organise someone today

This happened to me once. What I eventually found out was that one of the cats was spraying in the socket, so it was wet inside .

What I eventually found out was that one of the cats was spraying in the socket, so it was wet inside.

Same here, apparently it's very common. Just call an electrician and don't touch it in the meantime.