“Your name is in the Epstein Files”: Indian CEO shares screenshot of shocking mail

Getting in touch with a CEO in the startup world is not always easy. Founders receive dozens of emails every day, and most of them are written in a polite and professional way. But recently, an email sent to Harshdeep Rapal, founder and CEO of Legitt AI, caught attention for the wrong reasons.

Its subject line shocked people and quickly became a talking point online.

The email that surprised the CEO

Rapal received an email with the subject: “Your name is in the Epstein Files.”Anyone reading that would be taken aback. He was too. But when he opened the email, he realised it was not a serious allegation. It was meant to be a joke to get his attention.“Just kidding, I wanted you to open the mail”The sender, a CSE student from IIT Hyderabad, began the email on a light note:

“Hello Harshdeep, Just kidding, I wanted you to open the mail.”After that, the student explained why he was writing. He said he had gone through the company’s website and was especially interested in its Smart Contracts Assistant.“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 read.So, while the purpose of the email was professional and a resume was attached, the opening did not sit well with the CEO.

Rapal’s Advice: “Folks, please don’t do this”

Rapal later shared a screenshot of the email on X, hiding the student’s name. He used the incident to talk about why communication matters.“Folks, please don’t do this,” he wrote.He explained that they work in the field of contracts, which is serious business and demands responsibility.“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 said.He also added, “I understand that desperation can sometimes push people to take shortcuts - but this approach won’t help you.”His message was simple. If you are reaching out for an opportunity, think before you write.

Social media reacts

The post soon sparked debate online. Many users were surprised by the student’s approach.“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 an X user.Another person commented, “Really, who does this? This level of immaturity is unacceptable. I will never engage with such a firm or individuals. No thanks.”A third reaction read, “Quirky, non serious eyeball catchers have only one place and that is trash bin.”

A lesson for students and job seekers

The episode is a clear reminder that while it is important to stand out, the way you do it matters even more. The first email you send can shape someone’s opinion about you. A subject line that feels inappropriate or careless can shut down an opportunity before the conversation even begins.Disclaimer: This report is based on a post circulating on social media. The authenticity of the email and the screenshot shared online has not been independently verified.Thumb image: X