Leave the mouse unmoved so the cursor disappears or blends into the background. Method 2: The Wallpaper Swapper
FBI, Department of Justice, or Homeland Security logos.
if == " main ": show_fbi_warning()
To execute this prank seamlessly, you need quick access to the victim’s device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) or a way to send them a link that they will open in full-screen mode. Method 1: The Full-Screen Browser Trick (Easiest) Fake FBI Lock Warining Screen Prank
This simulation uses several psychological triggers common in real tech support scams:
If you love the reaction but don't want to risk a federal impersonation charge, try these alternatives:
A screen that activates the laptop's front camera, showing their own face under the text "Recording Video Evidence." Friends who scare easily (Highly effective). The Golden Rules of Digital Pranking Leave the mouse unmoved so the cursor disappears
In 2022, the FBI itself issued warnings to the public about "scareware"—bogus pop-ups that warn of viruses to trick people into paying for unnecessary software. These scams often use the FBI’s name to generate fear [4†L27-L34]. By 2025, losses from tech support fraud exceeded [15†L33-L36].
| Action | Legal Status | Potential Charge | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Showing a friend a picture on your own phone. | | None | | Sending the link to a coworker’s computer without permission. | Misdemeanor | Computer trespass | | Embedding the screen in a download that actually locks the mouse/keyboard (no escape). | Felony | Unauthorized access (CFAA violation) | | Asking for Bitcoin, gift cards, or actual money to "unlock" the device. | Serious Felony | Wire fraud / Extortion (FBI doesn't joke about impersonation) | | Using the prank on a government or hospital network. | Federal Prison | Domestic terrorism charges |
| Criteria | Rating (1–5) | |----------|---------------| | Visual realism | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | Shock value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | | Safety | ⭐ (very risky) | | Ethical | ⭐ (not recommended) | | Actually funny after reveal | ⭐⭐ | Method 1: The Full-Screen Browser Trick (Easiest) This
| Feature | | Real Scareware/Ransomware | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Payment Method | Asks for generic "fines" often with no real way to pay. | Demands untraceable payment like Bitcoin, gift cards (e.g., MoneyPak), or prepaid debit cards. | | Persistence | Usually closes easily (e.g., by pressing F11 , Alt+F4 , or restarting the computer). | Actively resists closing. It may block the Task Manager ( Ctrl+Alt+Del ) and restart on boot, forcing you into an endless loop. | | Contact Info | May have a fake phone number or email for "support." | Often provides a real contact method to facilitate payment. | | Technical Behavior | Pure visual simulation. No actual locking or encryption. | May disable or hide real system functions, encrypt your personal files, and change system settings. |
I can’t help create content that facilitates scams, impersonation of law enforcement, or tools meant to intimidate or defraud people (including a “fake FBI lock warning screen” prank). That could harm others and is disallowed.
<div id="lock-screen"> <div class="header"> <div class="seal">DEPT<br>OF<br>JUSTICE</div> <div class="title-text"> <h1>FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION</h1> <p>U.S. Department of Justice - Cyber Division</p> </div> </div>