10-05-2025
Akron Public Schools warns parents, guardians about TikTok trend of destroying laptops
Akron Public Schools is warning parents and guardians about a viral TikTok trend that involves destroying laptops.
APS sent out a 56-second all-call message at 6:15 p.m. May 9 that said the trend of inserting items such as paper clips into school-issued Chromebooks causes the laptops' batteries to short-circuit. The short-circuiting can cause "smoke, fire and potential injuries," per the message.
"We urge you to discuss the dangers of this trend with your children," the message said.
An APS spokesperson was not immediately available for comment on May 10 to discuss whether any APS students have taken part in the trend.
The all-call message said APS "will take swift and decisive action against any student involved in this dangerous activity," adding that actions may include disciplinary measures and that students could also face legal consequences.
Any students involved in setting a fire "will face consequences equivalent to arson charges," the message said.
Arson law in Ohio is "complex," according to a blog from Columbus-based Dominy Law Firm, which said charges for adults include misdemeanors with punishments of six months in jail and $1,000 fines. Depending on the type and severity of the crime, charges for adults can also include felonies that carry penalties of multiple years in prison and fines of thousands of dollars.
Akron Public Schools could also assess a $200 fine for damaging Chromebooks, per the all-call message.
"We ask for your partnership in addressing this issue," the message said. "By working together, we can ensure a safe learning environment for all students."
Patrick Williams covers growth and development for the Akron Beacon Journal. He can be reached by email at pwilliams@ or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @pwilliamsOH. Sign up for the Beacon Journal's business and consumer newsletter, "What's the deal?," at
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: APS all-call message: TikTok trend involves destroying laptops
