Indian CEO Gets 'Epstein Files' Email From IIT Hyderabad Student As Prank, Viral Post Sparks Backlash

An unusual email subject line from an IIT Hyderabad student recently caught the attention of Harshdeep Rapal, founder and CEO of Legitt AI, but not in a good way. The email, titled “Your name is in Epstein Files,” was intended to grab Rapal’s attention so he would read the student’s CV.When Rapal opened the email, he discovered the subject was merely a provocative hook referencing the infamous Jeffrey Epstein investigation. The body of the email quickly clarified that it was a joke: “Hello Harshdeep, Just kidding, I wanted you to open the mail,” it read.The student went on to introduce himself and highlight his interest in Rapal’s work, “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,” the email said.Rapal, however, was unimpressed by the attempt. Calling the approach unprofessional, he shared a screenshot of the email on X, with the student’s name redacted, along with a warning to others, “Folks, please don’t do this,” he wrote.He elaborated on why such tactics don’t work in the professional world, “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. If your very first email to me has that kind of subject line and opening message, I (and honestly, most founders or business leaders) simply won’t respond.”

Rapal added that while such “shortcuts” might be acceptable in college projects, they appear unprofessional in a business context, “I understand that desperation can sometimes push people to take shortcuts - but this approach won’t help you.” He concluded by advising students to communicate thoughtfully and professionally.Social media users echoed Rapal’s frustration, criticizing the student’s immaturity, “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…” wrote one X user, Avneet.Another commented, “Really, who does this? This level of immaturity is unacceptable. I will never engage with such a firm or individuals. No thanks.”And yet another added, “Quirky, non serious eyeball catchers have only one place and that is trash bin.”