A new and dangerous social media trend called the “Chromebook Challenge” is raising alarms in schools across the U.S. and Canada. Students are intentionally damaging school-issued laptops by inserting metal objects like paper clips, staples, or mechanical pencils into charging ports or near lithium-ion batteries—causing short circuits, smoke, or even fires—with the goal of recording videos to share on TikTok or Instagram.
“This is extremely dangerous,” warned Carol Henke, spokesperson for the Calgary Fire Department. “It’s not just property damage—it puts others at risk of serious harm.”
Media expert Adam Rodricks explains that many teens join in for online attention and social validation. “If you’re known as the class clown, this becomes the next prank to pull. It gives them a sense of acceptance within the online community.”
In Calgary, the public school board has not yet reported any cases, but the Catholic school board has confirmed one incident. In Edmonton, four cases have been confirmed, with several others under investigation. One case required a response from Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, and investigators believe it was linked to the Chromebook Challenge.
In the U.S., the trend has already led to injuries and even criminal charges, prompting schools and social media platforms like TikTok to take action—removing harmful content and limiting searchability of related keywords.
Schools across Alberta are now actively reminding students of the serious dangers of misusing school-issued technology.
