Pranks as a Menace to Humanity

Pranks are tricks pulled on someone to make fun of them in a friendly manner. They can be funny, but circumstances may occur that turn this intended mischief into something that is very harmful and destructive. Prank shows have played a significant role in entertaining the people, but the complexity it causes is never spoken of. These activities are admissible when done to known persons, as their reactions are anticipated but it may lead to serious ramifications when the reactor and their counteractions are abrupt. In recent times, pranks have become very common as Youtubers turn to perform pranks in public spaces such as parks, theatres etc. The predicament with the approach of pranks is that it has no definite perimeter, as there is no specific laws to govern them. Hence, pranksters are at liberty to perform any acts in the name of prank whereby, humiliating the reactor in public directly or by posting their reactions online. This article focuses on the history and evolution of pranks, depicting its darkest side. Prank shows have lead to incredulity in the principle of humanity, as people fear they might be on camera or are live-telecasted as a subject of uproariousness. However, not all pranks are bad, some are even illuminating and factual. The paper also discusses on the criminal and civil liability that arises from the consequences of a prank. Many victims to pranks are unaware that pranksters who perform acts that are discomfiting and abashing are criminally responsible for offences like assault, stalking, harassment and even emotional injuries. This paper enlightens its readers with the legal remedies available to prank victims. The paper also emphasizes the need for direct laws to regulate the acts of pranks. This paper concludes with the author’s critic pertaining to this topic.