MYNORTHWEST NEWS

Is Starbucks trying to crack down on “laptop hobos?”

Aug 3, 2011, 12:27 PM | Updated: Oct 10, 2012, 7:28 am

Reports say Starbucks is cracking down on so-called “lap top hobos” by covering electri...

Reports say Starbucks is cracking down on so-called "lap top hobos" by covering electrical outlets. (AP Photo)

(AP Photo)

Do you find it annoying when you can’t find a seat at Starbucks because people are using it as their personal office?

The days of camping out with your coffee and plugging your laptop into Starbucks’ free Wi-Fi service may be over. Reports say the company is cracking down on so-called “laptop hobos” by covering electrical outlets.

The unofficial Starbucks gossip blog reports some stores in New York City using outlet covers, but there’s no official word from the company.

Reaction from customers and employees on the blog support the move, complaining about the people that spread out all over, taking up tables and multiple chairs at even the busiest times.

Many other companies from McDonald’s to Panera Bakery either limit the time people can spend online or even cut off Wi-Fi altogether during peak times.

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Is Starbucks trying to crack down on “laptop hobos?”