Hi there, I’m your host with a quick tech briefing. Across the U.S., school districts from Colorado to New Jersey are warning parents about a dangerous TikTok craze called the “Chromebook Challenge.” Kids are deliberately sticking paper clips, pushpins, even gum wrappers into school-issued laptops to short-circuit them until they smoke or catch fire. One middle schooler in Connecticut “intentionally stuck scissors into a laptop, causing smoke to emit from it,” and had to be hospitalized for inhalation. Superintendent Brian Reas says, “the student involved will be referred to juvenile court to face criminal charges.” Schools have evacuated campuses, called first responders, and reminded families that vandalizing property can lead to discipline—or even legal action.
Meanwhile, in Washington, former President Trump announced on Truth Social he’s canceling the $2.75 billion Digital Equity Act grants, calling the program “racist and illegal.” Senator Patty Murray, who authored the law, called that move “absolutely insane,” noting the funds help seniors, veterans, and rural kids get online. Consumer advocates warn that blocking these grants could spark lawsuits and derail efforts to close America’s digital divide.
That’s your minute—stay safe, stay curious, and join us next time.
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