Social Media Challenge Damaging Chromebooks

May 14th, 2025

Español | 中文 | 한국어

HCPSS is aware of a current social media trend circulating on platforms such as TikTok that involves students inserting objects into their laptop ports to intentionally cause the device to short circuit, overheat, or even catch fire. This poses serious risks, including battery damage, sparks, smoke, toxic fumes, and potential fire hazards. This behavior endangers the individual student as well as others nearby, and school property.

Students who purposely damage an HCPSS-issued Chromebook may face disciplinary action in accordance with the HCPSS Student Code of Conduct. Families are reminded that per the HCPSS Student Mobile Technology Duties and Obligations, intentional damage to a Chromebook by a student may result in families being financially responsible for Chromebook repair costs for device replacement.

While there have not been widespread incidents in HCPSS schools, this information is being shared as a precaution to help keep our students and schools safe.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to have discussions with your child about the consequences they may face because of not using their HCPSS-issued Chromebook responsibly.