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computerThis Internet Horror Story was submitted by an Urlesque reader.

While working at a small technology startup, my coworker, Dave, celebrated his 27th birthday. In his honor, a group of coworkers presented him with a cheesy High School Music-themed card featuring Zac Efron.

After receiving it, Dave later admitted to me over AOL Instant Messenger that he had no idea who this kid was and the joke was totally lost on him. At the time, the movie High School Musical was sweeping the nation and Zac's cute co-star and girlfriend, Vanessa Hudgens, was grabbing her own scandalous headlines.

I was sure to fill Dave in on who this Zac guy was through reference to Vanessa Hudgens by sharing with him some of her racy photos. Another coworker, giggling beside me, was quick to point out my fatal error.

I had accidentally messaged another Dave in our office...the CEO. Quickly sending a follow-up message explaining that it was meant for someone else as a joke, I knew it was already too late to recover.

Mortified, with shoulders slumped, I headed into my weekly meeting with the CEO and other directors. The CEO could barely look me in the eye and we both awkwardly tried to go on as if nothing ever happened. My image as the sweet, bright-eyed girl was forever tarnished by a misfired instant message!

This Internet Horror Story was submitted by an Urlesque reader.