Suspense crime, Digital Desk : In a twist of fate humbling even the most powerful tech giants, Google’s state-of-the-art, $1 billion London office is not under siege by sophisticated hackers, but by a far more ancient and persistent foe: bedbugs.The sprawling “landscraper” building at King’s Cross, a horizontal skyscraper designed to be a pinnacle of modern work life, has been grappling with a stubborn bedbug infestation for months. The issue, which reportedly began in late 2023, has spread across multiple floors, causing significant disruption and distress for employees.Despite repeated attempts to eradicate the pests using various methods—including steam cleaning, freezing treatments, and chemical solutions—the problem persists. The situation has left employees frustrated and concerned about hygiene and safety, with many opting or being asked to work from home to avoid the infested areas. An internal meme reportedly circulating among staff shows a bedbug sitting at a desk with the caption, “My first day at Google.”This pest problem stands in stark contrast to the building’s grand vision. The impressive office boasts amenities like a rooftop running track, a swimming pool, and massage rooms, all designed to create an ideal work environment.For its part, Google has acknowledged the issue, stating that the health and well-being of its employees is a top priority and that it is working with pest control experts to resolve the situation. However, the ongoing nature of the infestation has led to employee complaints about a lack of transparency and effective action.Ultimately, the incident serves as a peculiar reminder that even in the most technologically advanced workspaces, some of the oldest and most basic problems can disrupt operations, forcing a retreat back to the safety of home offices.