Indian CEO gets pranked with 'Epstein files' email from IIT Hyderabad student
In a surprising turn of events, Harshdeep Rapal, the founder and CEO of Legitt AI, recently found himself the target of an unconventional email prank. The email, which claimed that his name was linked to the infamous ‘Epstein Files’, was sent by a student from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad. This incident has sparked discussions about professionalism and communication in the business world.
The Email That Shocked a CEO
On February 12, 2026, Rapal received an email with the provocative subject line: “Your name is in Epstein Files.” Intrigued yet concerned, he opened the email, only to discover that it was a ruse intended to capture his attention.
The email began with a light-hearted disclaimer: “Hello Harshdeep, Just kidding, I wanted you to open the mail.” The sender, whose name has been redacted for privacy, introduced himself as a Computer Science Engineering student at IIT Hyderabad and expressed interest in discussing his resume and the concept of the Smart Contracts Assistant, a project by Legitt AI.
Content of the Email
The body of the email read as follows:
Hello Harshdeep,
Just kidding, I wanted you to open the mail. I am [name redacted], CSE, IIT Hyderabad. I have gone through your website and came across the concept of the Smart Contracts Assistant. I would love to have a discussion. PFA of my resume.
CEO’s Reaction
Harshdeep Rapal was not amused by the approach taken by the student. He deemed it unprofessional and took to social media to express his thoughts. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he shared a screenshot of the email, with the student’s name redacted, and cautioned others against using such tactics.
Rapal stated, “Folks, please don’t do this,” emphasizing that most business owners would likely ignore emails that start with such an inappropriate subject line. He elaborated, “Take a moment to understand the context. At Legitt AI, we work in the business of contracts. It’s serious work that requires accountability, ownership, and professionalism.”
He further explained that while such tactics might be seen as clever in a college setting, they could backfire in the professional realm. “I understand that desperation can sometimes push people to take shortcuts – but this approach won’t help you,” he advised.
Public Reaction
The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with users expressing their disbelief and disappointment over the student’s email. The reactions highlighted a broader concern regarding professionalism among young professionals and students entering the workforce.
- Avneet: “I am shocked at the immaturity level. With this thought process, who would hire even if the candidate is the best in his hard skills? Psychology matters…”
- Another User: “Really, who does this? This level of immaturity is unacceptable. I will never engage with such a firm or individuals. No thanks.”
- A Third User: “Quirky, non-serious eyeball catchers have only one place and that is the trash bin.”
Lessons Learned
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism in communication, especially in the business world. Here are some key takeaways:
- Professionalism Matters: First impressions are crucial. A serious subject line and respectful language can set the tone for a positive interaction.
- Understand Your Audience: Tailoring your communication style to your audience can significantly impact your chances of being taken seriously.
- Avoid Gimmicks: While creativity can be beneficial, using controversial or inappropriate references can backfire and damage your reputation.
- Seek Constructive Feedback: Before sending out emails, especially for job applications or professional inquiries, consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors.
Conclusion
The prank email sent by the IIT Hyderabad student to Harshdeep Rapal highlights the delicate balance between creativity and professionalism in communication. While attempting to stand out in a competitive job market is understandable, it is essential to approach potential employers with respect and seriousness. As the professional landscape continues to evolve, understanding the nuances of communication will be vital for success.
Note: The incident serves as a cautionary tale for students and young professionals about the importance of maintaining professionalism in all forms of communication.
