Tweens doing the “Chromebook Challenge” as a viral prank has serious consequences. The dangerous TikTok trend has triggered serious concerns among schools and law enforcement nationwide. The “challenge” involves students intentionally damaging school-issued laptops by inserting objects like paper clips into USB ports, sometimes causing the devices to catch fire—all to post on TikTok. Multiple school districts, including those in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Oklahoma, have reported incidents or issued warnings, with some schools experiencing evacuations and property damage because of the fires. Disciplinary actions including possible expulsion and legal consequences are being enforced to dissuade this trend from continuing, and families may be held financially responsible for damages. (NBC)
