TO:
Administrators
FROM:
Steffany Ellsworth, Support Services Manager, Information Systems
Please be aware of a new DANGEROUS TikTok challenge that we've been experiencing in our schools. Students have learned that putting pencil lead into the USB port will cause a short circuit, causing the Chromebook to smoke and short out. Inserting pencil lead into a USB port can be dangerous. Pencil lead contains graphite, which is conductive, and can cause a fire when inserted in the USB port.
How to identify if this has possibly happened to a Chromebook:
- The pencil lead will create a short, which may melt the USB port.
- The Chromebook will likely not power on as it has a short circuit.
- The USB port stops charging the device, or headphones and other peripherals will not work on the affected port.
What to do:
- Do not attempt to remove the lead. This is dangerous and could further damage the port or the device.
- Do not try to charge or use the device. This could worsen the damage or create a fire hazard.
- Take the Chromebook to your school tech for disposal or repair.
- Contact your Administrator of Schools if you are considering sending a message to parents.
- Contact your Administrator of Schools for any questions related to disciplinary action.
