We’ve all encountered various life hacks that claim to simplify our lives, but some tips can cross ethical boundaries. Here are ten examples of unethical life hacks I’ve come across. I do not endorse or encourage using any of these methods.
1. Extending an Essay Deadline:
If you’re struggling to meet a deadline, you might consider sending a corrupted file by saving it as a notepad document instead of a Word file. The lecturer may contact you about the file issue, giving you extra time to finish and resubmit the completed essay.
2. Handling a Traffic Stop:
If you get pulled over for speeding, some suggest pretending to be deaf. The idea is that police might issue just a warning to avoid the hassle of trying to communicate.
3. Faking Illness at Work:
To sound more convincing when calling in sick, try lying on your back with your head hanging off the edge of the bed. This position can make your voice sound congested.
4. Requesting a Hotel Fridge:
If your hotel room lacks a fridge, you might call the front desk and claim you need one to keep insulin refrigerated, hoping they’ll provide one for your use.
5. Proving a Call Was Made:
If you need to show that you made a call without actually placing one, enable airplane mode and dial the number. This will create a call record without connecting.
6. Obtaining a Charger When Traveling:
If you forget your phone charger while traveling, visit a hotel, spend some time in their lobby, and then ask at the front desk for lost and found items. They may have spare chargers available.
7. Getting Free Tires:
To get new tires for your car, you might consider renting a vehicle with the same type of tires and then swapping your old tires with those from the rental.
8. Receiving Discounts on Online Purchases:
To get a discount when shopping online, register on the site, add items to your cart, then close the page. You may receive an email with a promo code for a discount after abandoning your cart.
9. Negotiating a Cable Subscription Discount:
As your cable or satellite contract nears its end, call the provider and mention you’re considering switching to a competitor. They may offer you a discount to keep you as a customer.
10. Getting a Discounted Audible Subscription:
If you want to cancel your Audible membership, try canceling it. You might receive an offer for the next three months at half price or with a free credit.
Remember, while these hacks might seem clever, they often involve dishonesty or manipulation, and it’s always better to seek ethical solutions to problems.
