Just looked at 2 identical hitches on Ebay and there is no difference between them and mine! Apart from they are not as tatty! So have no idea what you are on about. I am beginning to wonder if you know what you are on about!
I found this hitch on ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?VISuperSize&item=110700374703Same as mine and can't see the difference!
As for it not being safe I know that is rubbish as it used to hook on the tow bar and be solid and secure.
So if you can enlighten me. I am prepared to listen.