Do I need to worry about random nameless HEPA filters containing asbestos?
I would not be too concerned about a HEPA - or any new filter - containing asbestos. Asbestos has been so clearly outlawed for a long time in pretty much any consumer facing usage, especially anything that could result in airborne asbestos (which is the concern - solid/encapsulated is just not a problem) that I find it hard to believe even the Chinese would try to sneak it in, presumably to save a few $.
However, unless the filters are certified by some 3rd-party (preferably US or Europe based) company/organization, I would also not assume that cheap Chinese filters are actually HEPA quality. That is a significant step above ordinary filters. I would treat that &quot;HEPA&quot; label as &quot;hopefully a step above the regular filters from the same company&quot;. If you truly need HEPA filtration, don't really on the cheap Chinese stuff.
The Chinese are perfectly capable of producing top-quality products (iPhone, Tesla, etc.) but they are well-known to cut corners and to mislabel items in many different ways when they can. So without a known reputable company or 3rd-party testing, treat these filters as &quot;inexpensive and possibly HEPA&quot; and don't rely on them if you need &quot;clean room&quot; quality or have very allergic people to protect, etc.