Seriously Uncool Pranks

I was perusing the internet tonight for prank ideas, and I came across a site that thought it was just “hilarious” to infect a coworker’s computer with software that would make their cursor go crazy every time they touch their mouse, or cause hundreds of windows to pop up every time they turn on their desktop—and yes, they all had to be clicked off manually. Sorry, but I don’t think those are funny at all. In fact, it’s just those kinds of office pranksters that give the rest of us a bad name.

There are some basic ground rules to office pranking, and the most essential of these is that the pranks should enhance, rather than detract from the boring workday. If you’re infecting someone’s work computer with what essentially amounts to a virus, then you’ve just crossed a very serious line.

If you’re contemplating a prank and are kind of iffy about the circumstances, remember that it’s always better to be safe than sorry. First, there’s nothing funny about getting fired—period. Never prank a coworker that you don’t get along really well with. Don’t pick on someone that’s really shy or has some kind of problem; that’s just mean.

And steer clear of any prank with sexual undertones. Even if you’re 100% positive that the person won’t take it the wrong way, you can’t be sure that someone else in the office won’t be offended. It’s just too risky.

It’s also a good idea to avoid pranking your boss unless you’re absolutely sure that they’re ok with it. (Even then… It’s a fine line to walk)

And finally keep the 15 minute rule in mind: It should take the other person no more than 15-20 minutes to “undo” your prank and be able to get back to work.