Logic test: You’ll need a keen eye to solve this tricky riddle that’s puzzling the internet
An Instagram riddle about an old man left users confused.
In an age of short attention spans and fast-scrolling feeds, one thing still manages to stop us in our tracks: a good brain teaser. Whether it’s a cryptic riddle or a seemingly simple logic puzzle, these mental challenges hold a curious power over the internet – drawing people in, fuelling debates, and delivering that deeply satisfying ‘aha!’ moment.

Now, a brain teaser shared by the Instagram account 'Reel Serious' has left users thoroughly stumped. The riddle is as puzzling as it is poetic. It reads:
“I saw an old man on the street today. When we passed, he took out his hat and drew his cane. If you read this closely, you will know the old man's name. What is his name?”
(Also read: Only quick thinkers can crack this tricky brain teaser that’s left even experts scratching their heads)
Check out the puzzle here:
The answer, though hiding in plain sight, has baffled many. As it turns out, the clue lies not in logic, but in careful reading.
Not the first to confuse social media
This isn’t the first time a riddle has thrown the internet into a frenzy. Earlier, a logic-based brain teaser shared by Facebook user Arshdeep Soni left many scratching their heads. It read:
“If John’s son is my son’s father, who am I?”
It’s a reminder that while these riddles are often short and seemingly simple, they rely on careful interpretation and a keen eye for language. And judging by the reactions online, people love a mental challenge.
Brain teasers and their growing popularity on social media
Whether it's about testing one’s intelligence, showcasing reasoning skills, or simply sharing a bit of fun with friends, brain teasers have carved out a permanent space on social media. From riddles that make you think twice to puzzles that spark debates in the comments section, they’ve become a go-to source of entertainment for curious minds online.
Their appeal lies in their simplicity — and the thrill of cracking the code. In an age of endless scrolling and constant notifications, there’s something refreshing about pausing to engage with a brain teaser. It offers a brief but rewarding mental challenge.
So — did you figure out the name?
ABOUT THE AUTHORMahipal Singh ChouhanMahipal Singh Chouhan is a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital, with nearly five years of experience in digital journalism and content production. His work primarily focuses on offbeat and trending stories that reflect everyday experiences and evolving conversations on the internet. He has consistently worked on transforming viral content and human interest stories into structured news pieces that engage readers while maintaining editorial clarity. At Hindustan Times, Mahipal contributes to identifying and developing stories emerging from social media trends, online communities, and real-world incidents that capture public attention. His approach involves adding context and journalistic perspective to fast-moving digital narratives, helping present viral moments in a clear and reader-friendly format suited for digital audiences. Before joining Hindustan Times Digital, he was associated with DNA India, where he gained experience in newsroom workflows and digital storytelling practices. Mahipal holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi. He is particularly interested in tracking emerging trends and understanding how online conversations evolve into broader public discussions. His work reflects a focus on accuracy, readability, and relevance in the rapidly changing digital news environment. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Mahipal takes an interest in history and sports and regularly works on improving his general knowledge, which complements his curiosity as a media professional.Read More

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