A disturbing new trend is circulating on TikTok and in schools. Students are being encouraged to cause sparks and fires with their Chromebooks. The result is as absurd as it is dangerous.
TikTok challenges can quickly turn into a nightmare. The infamous Blackout Challenge, blamed for several children's deaths, encouraged people to hold their breath until they fainted. More recently, the "No door, no problem" challenge prompted influencers to break into fast-food kitchens via drive-throughs. Now, a new trend is gaining momentum: the Chromebook Challenge, and it's starting to cause panic in some schools across the United States. This challenge encourages students to insert metal objects, such as paper clips, into the USB ports of their laptops, particularly school-issued Chromebooks. The goal is to cause sparks, smoke, and a short circuit, or even start a fire. According to NBC News, some students are filming their attempts to post them on TikTok or other platforms. This behavior not only endangers the equipment, but also those nearby, not to mention disciplinary and legal consequences.
Students who participate in the Chromebook Challenge risk expulsion and prosecution
Faced with the increase in cases, several American schools have taken swift action. In Lincoln Park, New Jersey, a principal reminded families that this type of act is considered vandalism, and can even be prosecuted as arson if more serious damage occurs. In Virginia, letters were sent to parents reminding them that any willful damage to school computers will be billed to families, in accordance with regulations. Others are already discussing temporarily banning the use of the devices for the affected classes.
TikTok claims to have blocked searches related to the keyword "Chromebook Challenge," but the videos are still circulating in variations. This phenomenon illustrates once again the harmful impact that certain viral content can have on younger children. Schools are urging vigilance and asking parents to talk openly with their children about these trends. A simple challenge can lead to injury, temporary or permanent suspension, or even criminal prosecution. For a few seconds of online fame, some students risk much more than losing a computer.
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