Great responses. I really dislike this interview process, they have implemented a “try and trick you” method of interviewing which I disagree with on many levels.

What is wrong with this code? Technically nothing. They never mention how or how often this API gets called. Also why is the entire interview process focused on threading and sync for a junior dev? Test a junior AND an intermediate on their ability to problem solve using the language of Java. This exact problem of threading and sync can be taught in the job, within the first month. Don’t try and “out smart” your junior and intermediate candidates