Chromebook TikTok Challenge Prompts Warnings In Howell

HOWELL, NJ — Howell authorities have issued a warning to parents about TikTok trend circulating that has led to Chromebooks catching on fire.

The "Chromebook Challenge" that has been making the rounds on TikTok in particular involves students sticking various metal or lead objects such as paper clips, pushpins, aluminum foil, or mechanical pencils into the USB port on their Chromebooks, Howell Township police said in a notice to the community.

Sticking metal into the USB port causes the Chromebook to short-circuit, authorities said.

"What may appear to be a harmless 'experiment' online can quickly turn into a life-threatening situatio"n," Howell Township Schoools officials said. Short-circuiting the device may cause the lithium-ion battery to fail, potentially releasing flammable, toxic vapors and starting a fire."

In Belleville, a student was charged with arson after sticking an item in the USB port and causing it to burn, leading to an evacuation of a school.

Howell school officials said in addition to the dangers of a potential fire, the action can irreparably damage the Chromebooks, which in the vast majority of cases have been issued to students and their families by the schools. That could mean school disciplinary actions or even legal consequences, Howell schools officials said.

"As parents and guardians, it’s crucial to stay engaged," Howell schools officials said. "Have open conversations with your child about the dangers of online trends and peer pressure. Monitor the content they view and share on platforms like TikTok. Reinforce that school devices are meant for learning — not for viral stunts."