Who, Me? Password resetter’s perilous prank

How on earth is it 2026 already? The Register will ponder that existential matter after first presenting a new instalment of “Who, Me?” – the reader-contributed column in which we share your stories of things you shouldn’t do at work, and how you escape them unscathed.

This week, meet a reader we’ll Regomize as “Patrick” who told us about his time working on the tech support team at a UK government agency.

“One of my colleagues was an 18-year-old whose entire job was resetting passwords,” Patrick told The Register. “That’s it, that is all he did. We had a large number of users and hence a large number of numpties who regularly screwed up their logins.”

Patrick described his young colleague as “remarkably patient” and “a good lad who we all got on well with.”

How to Handle a Toxic Boss

Dealing with a toxic boss is unfortunately a common workplace challenge. It can create a stressful and demoralizing environment, impacting your mental health and career progression. But you’re not powerless.Here’s a guide to navigating this difficult situation, protecting yourself, and perhaps improving the dynamic – or knowing when it’s time to move on.

Understanding Toxic Boss Behavior

Toxic bosses exhibit a range of negative behaviors. These can include:

• Constant Criticism: Never offering positive feedback, focusing solely on flaws.
• Micromanaging: Excessively controlling every detail of your work, stifling autonomy.
• Bullying & Intimidation: Using threats, humiliation, or aggressive language.
• Gaslighting: Denying your reality, making you question your sanity or competence.
• Unrealistic expectations: Setting unfeasible goals and then blaming you for failing to meet them.
• Favoritism: Showing preferential treatment to certain employees, creating an unfair environment.
• Lack of Communication: Withholding information,leaving you in the dark.

It’s vital to recognize these patterns. Toxic behavior isn’t just a bad day; it’s a consistent pattern of negativity and control.

Strategies for Coping

Here’s how to protect yourself and manage the situation:

1. Document Everything

This is crucial. keep a detailed record of specific incidents,including dates,times,what was said or done,and any witnesses. emails are excellent documentation, but also keep a separate log for verbal interactions. This documentation can be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue to HR.

2. Set Boundaries

Clearly define your limits. This might mean politely declining extra work when you’re already overloaded, or refusing to engage in personal conversations. Be assertive but professional. Such as, instead of saying “I can’t do that,” try “I’m currently focused on X and Y. I can take on Z after those are completed.”

3. Focus on What you Can Control

You can’t change your boss’s behavior, but you can control your reaction to it. Concentrate on delivering high-quality work, maintaining a positive attitude (as much as possible), and building strong relationships with your colleagues.

4.Seek Support

talk to trusted colleagues,friends,or family members about what you’re experiencing. Having a support system can help you process your emotions and gain viewpoint. Consider seeking professional counseling if the stress is significantly impacting your well-being.

5. Communicate (Carefully)

If you feel safe doing so,you might try addressing the issue directly with your boss. Focus on the impact of their behavior,not their personality. For example, instead of saying “You’re a bully,” try “When you raise your voice during meetings, it makes it difficult for me to contribute ideas.” Be prepared for this conversation to not go well, and don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position.

When to Involve HR

If the toxic behavior is severe, violates company policy (like harassment or discrimination), or your attempts to cope haven’t improved the situation, it’s time to involve Human Resources. Present your documented evidence and clearly explain the impact the behavior is having on you and the workplace. Understand that HR’s primary duty is to the company, so manage your expectations.

Knowing When to Leave

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the situation is irreparable.If the toxic environment is consistently damaging your mental health, hindering your career growth, or creating a unfriendly work environment, it may be time to start looking for a new job.Your well-being is paramount.

Key Takeaways

• Document everything: Protect yourself with a detailed record of incidents.
• set firm boundaries: Define your limits and assertively communicate them.
• Prioritize your well-being: Don’t let a toxic boss destroy your mental health.
• Know your options: Consider HR intervention or, if necessary, finding a new job.