A concerning trend has emerged among students on TikTok, where individuals attempt to cause their Chromebooks to smoke by inserting metallic objects into their ports. Items such as pins, paperclips, staples, and scissors, commonly found in school settings, are used in these dangerous experiments. Reports indicate that several school districts, including those in Colorado, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Washington, have reacted by sending warnings to parents about the hazards associated with this challenge.
Serious Consequences of the Challenge
Instances of students engaging in this activity have led to alarming incidents, with some laptops emitting smoke or even catching fire. The presence of lithium batteries in these devices presents a significant explosion risk, prompting emergency responses that include classroom evacuations and the involvement of firefighters. One notable case involved a student inserting scissors into a laptop, which resulted in toxic smoke and required another student to be hospitalized for inhalation. This student now faces legal consequences in juvenile court.
Past Viral Challenges and TikTok’s Response
Similar dangerous trends have circulated on social media in the past. For example, the Kia Challenge highlighted the ease of stealing certain Kia and Hyundai models, while the Blackout Challenge involved self-strangulation leading to tragic accidental deaths. In 2020, the Penny or Outlet Challenge encouraged users to insert a penny into an electrical outlet, creating short circuits.
In light of the Chromebook Challenge, TikTok has taken swift action to mitigate risks associated with this behavior. Searches for the term “Chromebook Challenge” on the platform yield a warning message indicating that the phrase may relate to content violating community guidelines. TikTok emphasizes the importance of promoting a safe experience for its users.
Safety Precautions and Alternatives
Alternative searches, such as “Chromebook durability,” reveal content where users test the laptops by throwing or bending them, yet none depict the dangerous act of causing devices to smoke or catch fire. Engaging in safe and constructive challenges can help divert attention away from these harmful trends. Awareness and education among students and parents are crucial to combating the allure of such risky behaviors.