Pennies can be shorted but VERY RISKY, for small payout. Not a good idea in most cases, plus Huge margin $$ requirements.
Most brokerages don't allow it, and often few if any shares available in the first place.
"It is easier to fool someone, than to convince them they have been fooled."
For those that don't get it, it means that people need to be more careful, and do good due diligence.