School districts in Osceola and Lake counties are alerting parents about a troubling new social media trend that is reportedly encouraging students to intentionally damage school-issued laptops. The viral “Chromebook Challenge” has gained traction on TikTok and involves inserting sharp or metal objects into the charging ports of Chromebooks, potentially causing the devices to short circuit, spark, or catch fire.
On Wednesday, the Osceola County School District sent out a message to families, calling the trend “unacceptable” and urging parents to speak with their children about the serious risks and consequences of participating.
“We urge you to speak with your children about the repercussions of participating in such activities,” the message stated. “If your child is found to have participated in this challenge, you, as the parent, will be held financially responsible for any damages incurred.”…