Urban Legends: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Hoax Quiz - Spot the Fakes!
Real or Fake? Take the quiz and see if you can tell the hoax photos from the real thing!
Real or Fake? Take the quiz and see if you can tell the hoax photos from the real thing!
Cosby: 'I'm 83 and Tired'
A viral rant attributed to Bill Cosby complaining of lazy poor people, Muslims, programs that help drug addicts, believers in global warming, and 'the world these people made.'
A viral rant attributed to Bill Cosby complaining of lazy poor people, Muslims, programs that help drug addicts, believers in global warming, and 'the world these people made.'
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 10 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 10 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
Breast Infestation - Urban Legends
Ladies, wash your underwear in boiling water! Emailed image and video purport to document the medical case of anthropologist Susan McKinley, who failed to seek treatment for a rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast.
Ladies, wash your underwear in boiling water! Emailed image and video purport to document the medical case of anthropologist Susan McKinley, who failed to seek treatment for a rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast.
World's Biggest Dog?
Emailed photo of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
Emailed photo of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
Needles Under Gas Pump Handles?
Viral alert warns that evildoers are exposing unsuspecting victims to the AIDS virus by attaching HIV-contaminated needles to gas pump handles.
Viral alert warns that evildoers are exposing unsuspecting victims to the AIDS virus by attaching HIV-contaminated needles to gas pump handles.
The Legend of Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary: Legend has it that if you stand in front of a mirror in a darkened room and chant 'Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary,' a terrifying ghost will appear.
Bloody Mary: Legend has it that if you stand in front of a mirror in a darkened room and chant 'Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary,' a terrifying ghost will appear.
Vicks on Your Feet for Cough?
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying 'Vicks Vapor Rub' to the bottoms of their feet at bedtime.
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying 'Vicks Vapor Rub' to the bottoms of their feet at bedtime.
Mechanically Separated Chicken
Viral image appears to document the production of mechanically separated chicken, a processed food ingredient made using machinery that strips poultry meat off the bone before passing it through a sieve to form a smooth, thick paste.
Viral image appears to document the production of mechanically separated chicken, a processed food ingredient made using machinery that strips poultry meat off the bone before passing it through a sieve to form a smooth, thick paste.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Longstanding (and unproven) rumors claim actress Jamie Lee Curtis is a hermaphrodite, or was born intersex and underwent surgery as a child to become female.
Longstanding (and unproven) rumors claim actress Jamie Lee Curtis is a hermaphrodite, or was born intersex and underwent surgery as a child to become female.
Facebook Privacy Settings
Viral wall posting purports to explain steps Facebook members can take to protect the privacy of their comments and likes.
Viral wall posting purports to explain steps Facebook members can take to protect the privacy of their comments and likes.
The Clown Statue
A babysitter calls the parents she's working for to ask if she can cover up the disturbing 'clown statue' in the room where she's watching TV. The parents tell her to call 911 immediately and get out of the house!
A babysitter calls the parents she's working for to ask if she can cover up the disturbing 'clown statue' in the room where she's watching TV. The parents tell her to call 911 immediately and get out of the house!
Mr. Rogers a Sniper?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained, tattoo-wearing sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine Corps sniper (or Navy SEAL)?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained, tattoo-wearing sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine Corps sniper (or Navy SEAL)?
Test Your Urban Legends IQ
Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!: urban legends iq
Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!: urban legends iq
Return of the Butt Spider!
Recycled hoax warns of the Two-Striped Telamonia spider (Telamonia dimidiata), purportedly a poisonous specimen from Indonesia that hides under toilet seats and has killed five people in North Florida.
Recycled hoax warns of the Two-Striped Telamonia spider (Telamonia dimidiata), purportedly a poisonous specimen from Indonesia that hides under toilet seats and has killed five people in North Florida.
Onions and Flu
Onions and flu: Forwarded email claims placing sliced onions around the home will 'collect' or 'absorb' any flu virus present and protect members of the household from coming down with influenza.
Onions and flu: Forwarded email claims placing sliced onions around the home will 'collect' or 'absorb' any flu virus present and protect members of the household from coming down with influenza.
The Origin of the F-Word - Urban Legends
On the origin of 'fuck': In which we are asked to believe that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King,' 'Fornication Under Command of the King,' 'For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge,' or some other variation thereof.
On the origin of 'fuck': In which we are asked to believe that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King,' 'Fornication Under Command of the King,' 'For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge,' or some other variation thereof.
Humans Can Lick, Too
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' Here's a popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter.
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' Here's a popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter.
Richard Gere & the Gerbil
Several years ago, 'they' say, actor Richard Gere was admitted into the emergency room of a Los Angeles hospital with a foreign object lodged in a bodily orifice.
Several years ago, 'they' say, actor Richard Gere was admitted into the emergency room of a Los Angeles hospital with a foreign object lodged in a bodily orifice.
Cell Phone Numbers Go Public?
Viral messages warn that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and users should dial 888-382-1222 to add mobile numbers to the Do Not Call Registry to prevent telemarketing calls.
Viral messages warn that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and users should dial 888-382-1222 to add mobile numbers to the Do Not Call Registry to prevent telemarketing calls.
Top 25 Urban Legends
Most popular urban legends, online rumors and hoaxes of the past week
Most popular urban legends, online rumors and hoaxes of the past week
Bill Gates' 11 Rules of Life - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, the text of a speech allegedly given by Bill Gates in which he sets out 11 'rules of life' kids won't learn in school.
Circulating via email, the text of a speech allegedly given by Bill Gates in which he sets out 11 'rules of life' kids won't learn in school.
Seriously McDonald's?
HOAX: Viral image shows a sign allegedly posted in a McDonald's restaurant stating that African-American patrons must pay an additional $1.50 transaction fee due to a recent string of robberies.
HOAX: Viral image shows a sign allegedly posted in a McDonald's restaurant stating that African-American patrons must pay an additional $1.50 transaction fee due to a recent string of robberies.
Are Leftover Onions Poisonous?
Forwarded email claims that uncooked, leftover onions are 'poisonous' because they're 'a huge magnet for bacteria,' therefore especially prone to spoilage.
Forwarded email claims that uncooked, leftover onions are 'poisonous' because they're 'a huge magnet for bacteria,' therefore especially prone to spoilage.
Don't Turn on the Light!
After coming home late and getting ready for bed in the dark, a college coed wakes up the next morning to receive the shock of her life...
After coming home late and getting ready for bed in the dark, a college coed wakes up the next morning to receive the shock of her life...
Einstein Proved God Exists?
Einstein's proof of God? In this viral anecdote of unknown origin, a university student named Albert Einstein humiliates his atheist professor by proving that God exists.
Einstein's proof of God? In this viral anecdote of unknown origin, a university student named Albert Einstein humiliates his atheist professor by proving that God exists.
Darrell Scott's Columbine Testimony - Urban Legends
Mr. Darrell Scott, the father of a victim of the Columbine shootings, did in fact deliver the stirring Congressional testimony that has been widely quoted in forwarded emails.
Mr. Darrell Scott, the father of a victim of the Columbine shootings, did in fact deliver the stirring Congressional testimony that has been widely quoted in forwarded emails.
The Babysitter & the Man Upstairs
A teenage babysitter frantically calls the police after receiving prank calls from a stranger who repeatedly inquires after the welfare of the children she's supposed to be taking care of.
A teenage babysitter frantically calls the police after receiving prank calls from a stranger who repeatedly inquires after the welfare of the children she's supposed to be taking care of.
Ann Coulter and the Black Pilot
'News article' shared via social media claims conservative pundit Ann Coulter refused to board a commercial airline flight after learning the pilot was African American.
'News article' shared via social media claims conservative pundit Ann Coulter refused to board a commercial airline flight after learning the pilot was African American.
Dial *112 in Police Emergency?
Female college student pulled over by a rapist impersonating a cop is rescued by a real officer after dialing *112 (or #112) emergency number on her cell phone.
Female college student pulled over by a rapist impersonating a cop is rescued by a real officer after dialing *112 (or #112) emergency number on her cell phone.
Obama Citizenship Hoax
Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court - Purported AP news story claims Occidental College transcripts reveal that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship only awarded to foreign-born students.
Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court - Purported AP news story claims Occidental College transcripts reveal that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship only awarded to foreign-born students.
The Teacher and Little Teddy Stoddard - Urban Legends
Inspirational (though fictional) story of little Teddy Stoddard, a disadvantaged child who blossomed under the influence of his teacher, Mrs. Thompson, and went on to become a successful doctor.
Inspirational (though fictional) story of little Teddy Stoddard, a disadvantaged child who blossomed under the influence of his teacher, Mrs. Thompson, and went on to become a successful doctor.
Snopes Exposed?
Snopes Exposed: Does Snopes.com have a liberal bias? Forwarded email alleges that the urban legend debunking site Snopes.com is 'owned by a flaming liberal' who is 'in the tank for Obama' and can't be trusted to provide reliable information.
Snopes Exposed: Does Snopes.com have a liberal bias? Forwarded email alleges that the urban legend debunking site Snopes.com is 'owned by a flaming liberal' who is 'in the tank for Obama' and can't be trusted to provide reliable information.
The Hook
The Hook: A teenager drove his date to Lovers' Lane for a make-out session before it was time to take her home. The place was very dark and deserted...
The Hook: A teenager drove his date to Lovers' Lane for a make-out session before it was time to take her home. The place was very dark and deserted...
The Fatal Hairdo
Girl with a 'beehive' hairdo dies a horrible death after a spider crawls inside and lays eggs, hatching a brood of hungry arachnids. Legendary proof that vanity can kill.
Girl with a 'beehive' hairdo dies a horrible death after a spider crawls inside and lays eggs, hatching a brood of hungry arachnids. Legendary proof that vanity can kill.
Pepsi Omits 'Under God' in Patriotic Can Promotion? - Urban Legends
Don't buy the new Pepsi can? Baseless email campaign protests the alleged omission of the words 'under God' in an excerpt from the Pledge of Allegiance on new Pepsi cans.
Don't buy the new Pepsi can? Baseless email campaign protests the alleged omission of the words 'under God' in an excerpt from the Pledge of Allegiance on new Pepsi cans.
The Boyfriend's Death
They picked the worst possible night to go necking on Lovers' Lane...
They picked the worst possible night to go necking on Lovers' Lane...
Carmen Winstead
Chain-letter-style Internet postings tell the story of Carmen Winstead, a 17-year-old girl supposedly pushed down a sewer and killed by a gang of girls from her school.
Chain-letter-style Internet postings tell the story of Carmen Winstead, a 17-year-old girl supposedly pushed down a sewer and killed by a gang of girls from her school.
The \$250 Cookie Recipe
Here's a 'true story' almost everyone has heard by now: the infamous $250 Cookie Recipe, most recently associated with the Neiman Marcus company, but previously (during the 1980s) the bane of cookie diva Mrs. Fields.
Here's a 'true story' almost everyone has heard by now: the infamous $250 Cookie Recipe, most recently associated with the Neiman Marcus company, but previously (during the 1980s) the bane of cookie diva Mrs. Fields.
'Postcard from Hallmark' Virus Hoax - Urban Legends
Hoax alert warns of 'the worst virus ever' circulating in the form of an attachment labeled 'POSTCARD' or 'POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK.'
Hoax alert warns of 'the worst virus ever' circulating in the form of an attachment labeled 'POSTCARD' or 'POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK.'
The Killer in the Backseat
Drivers beware - that person following you on the highway may actually be trying to save your life!
Drivers beware - that person following you on the highway may actually be trying to save your life!
Celebs Respond to Death Hoaxes
Celebrities respond to false Internet death notices.
Celebrities respond to false Internet death notices.
Dog Park Alert
Viral image replicating on Facebook purports to document a 'new trend' at dog parks, namely people leaving cheese and ham mixed with nails to cause injury and death to pets.
Viral image replicating on Facebook purports to document a 'new trend' at dog parks, namely people leaving cheese and ham mixed with nails to cause injury and death to pets.
Aspartame (NutraSweet) Warning - Urban Legends
Email alert warns of alleged health hazards of the artificial sweetener aspartame
Email alert warns of alleged health hazards of the artificial sweetener aspartame
Campfire Tales
Scary stories and urban legends: It's the witching hour on a dark, moonless night. You're huddled with friends around a campfire in the woods far from town, taking turns telling tales. Someone in the shadows clears his throat and begins to speak: 'Did you hear the one about...'
Scary stories and urban legends: It's the witching hour on a dark, moonless night. You're huddled with friends around a campfire in the woods far from town, taking turns telling tales. Someone in the shadows clears his throat and begins to speak: 'Did you hear the one about...'
Buried Alive!
Once upon a time, before modern embalming techniques were developed, people were indeed found on very rare occasions to have been buried alive.
Once upon a time, before modern embalming techniques were developed, people were indeed found on very rare occasions to have been buried alive.
'I'm Tired' by Robert A. Hall
Forwarded text attributed to U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Massachusetts state senator Robert A. Hall condemns the ideas and policies of President Obama and the 'latte liberals' who voted for him.
Forwarded text attributed to U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former Massachusetts state senator Robert A. Hall condemns the ideas and policies of President Obama and the 'latte liberals' who voted for him.
Phenylpropanolamine Recall - Urban Legends
Forwarded emails warning that non-prescription medicines containing PPA (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride) may have adverse health effects were accurate at the time they were issued but are now outdated.
Forwarded emails warning that non-prescription medicines containing PPA (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride) may have adverse health effects were accurate at the time they were issued but are now outdated.
Obama's Left-Handed Salute
Viral image appears to show Barack and Michelle Obama saluting the flag by placing their left hands (instead of their right) over their hearts.
Viral image appears to show Barack and Michelle Obama saluting the flag by placing their left hands (instead of their right) over their hearts.
Burundanga Drug Warning
Viral rumors warn of criminals using business cards impregnated with a drug called burundanga to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Viral rumors warn of criminals using business cards impregnated with a drug called burundanga to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Gross Pictures
A gallery of viral images notable for their 'ick' factor. Some of these 'gross pictures' are authentic, others are fakes. As you'll see, it's not always easy to tell which is which. WARNING: Some viewers may find these images unnerving or offensive.
A gallery of viral images notable for their 'ick' factor. Some of these 'gross pictures' are authentic, others are fakes. As you'll see, it's not always easy to tell which is which. WARNING: Some viewers may find these images unnerving or offensive.
Made in China Bar Codes?
Forwarded email claims potentially hazardous products made in China can be identified by examining the first three digits of the bar code on the packaging, which supposedly indicate the country of origin.
Forwarded email claims potentially hazardous products made in China can be identified by examining the first three digits of the bar code on the packaging, which supposedly indicate the country of origin.
A Violinist in the Metro
Forwarded email describes what happened when acclaimed classical violinist Joshua Bell went incognito to play for tips on a subway platform one cold winter morning in Washington, D.C.
Forwarded email describes what happened when acclaimed classical violinist Joshua Bell went incognito to play for tips on a subway platform one cold winter morning in Washington, D.C.
NASA Predicts Dec. 2012 Blackout?
False rumor claims NASA is predicting 3 days of darkness - a 'total blackout' between Dec. 23 and 25, 2012 - due to an 'alignment of the universe' during which the earth will shift from the third dimension to 'zero dimension.'
False rumor claims NASA is predicting 3 days of darkness - a 'total blackout' between Dec. 23 and 25, 2012 - due to an 'alignment of the universe' during which the earth will shift from the third dimension to 'zero dimension.'
Darrell 'Shifty' Powers
Email tribute to Darrell 'Shifty' Powers, World War II hero and member of the 'Band of Brothers' made famous by the Stephen Ambrose book and HBO miniseries of the same title. He died on June 17, 2009.
Email tribute to Darrell 'Shifty' Powers, World War II hero and member of the 'Band of Brothers' made famous by the Stephen Ambrose book and HBO miniseries of the same title. He died on June 17, 2009.
Is Barack Obama a Muslim? - Urban Legends
Email rumor alleges that Barack Obama is secretly a Muslim and has lied to the American people about his religious ties, including his claim to being a devout Christian for most of his adult life.
Email rumor alleges that Barack Obama is secretly a Muslim and has lied to the American people about his religious ties, including his claim to being a devout Christian for most of his adult life.
Current Hoaxes / Netlore
Hoax List from About.com: Current Internet hoaxes, email rumors and urban legends debunked - your resource for information on all the latest misinformation on the Net.
Hoax List from About.com: Current Internet hoaxes, email rumors and urban legends debunked - your resource for information on all the latest misinformation on the Net.
Mountain Dew a Contraceptive?
Is it true that the popular American soft drink Mountain Dew can lower a male's sperm count and be used as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy?
Is it true that the popular American soft drink Mountain Dew can lower a male's sperm count and be used as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy?
Secret Cell Phone Tips?
Forwarded email purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use, including dialing 112 to access a worldwide emergency network.
Forwarded email purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use, including dialing 112 to access a worldwide emergency network.
How Clean Are Dogs' Mouths?
If you don't mind my falling back on a gut feeling, I'd rather be French-kissed by a human being than a dog any day...
If you don't mind my falling back on a gut feeling, I'd rather be French-kissed by a human being than a dog any day...
Why Is the Ocean Salty? Whale Sperm! - Urban Legends
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
Ciara's Secret Sex Change
Internet rumors are flying to the effect that hip-hop/R&B star Ciara was born male and is either a secret transvestite or underwent a sex-change operation to become a transsexual.
Internet rumors are flying to the effect that hip-hop/R&B star Ciara was born male and is either a secret transvestite or underwent a sex-change operation to become a transsexual.
New Carjacking Scheme?
Viral rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a flyer or piece of paper on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
Viral rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a flyer or piece of paper on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
'New' Car Break-in Method
Viral alert warns of a 'new' vehicle break-in method wherein thieves punch a hole under the handle of a car door to unlock it.
Viral alert warns of a 'new' vehicle break-in method wherein thieves punch a hole under the handle of a car door to unlock it.
Baby Carrots and Chlorine
Forwarded email claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
Forwarded email claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
809 Area Code Scam - Urban Legends
809 Area Code Scam - Email alerts circulating since 1996 warn consumers not to comply with telephone, pager, or email requests to dial phone numbers beginning with the area codes 809, 284, or 876.
809 Area Code Scam - Email alerts circulating since 1996 warn consumers not to comply with telephone, pager, or email requests to dial phone numbers beginning with the area codes 809, 284, or 876.
Origin of the S-Word: 'Ship High in Transit' - Urban Legends
In which we are told, and with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a supposed nautical phrase.
In which we are told, and with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a supposed nautical phrase.
Monkey Orchid
Viral image is said to depict a so-called Monkey Orchid, an unusual flower with features reminiscent of the face of a monkey.
Viral image is said to depict a so-called Monkey Orchid, an unusual flower with features reminiscent of the face of a monkey.
Good Luck, Mr. Gorsky! - Urban Legends
'Good luck, Mr. Gorsky!' - An apocryphal footnote to the history of Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 lunar landing and moonwalk.
'Good luck, Mr. Gorsky!' - An apocryphal footnote to the history of Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 lunar landing and moonwalk.
Black Lion
Photo circulating via social media purports to show a rare, all-black lion. (P.S., it's fake.)
Photo circulating via social media purports to show a rare, all-black lion. (P.S., it's fake.)
The 'Truth' About Martin Luther King - Urban Legends
Anonymous forwarded email purports to reveal 'Four Things You Didn't Know About Martin Luther King, Jr.'
Anonymous forwarded email purports to reveal 'Four Things You Didn't Know About Martin Luther King, Jr.'
Balancing Eggs on the Equinox
Is it true you can balance eggs (or brooms) on end during the spring (or fall) equinox?
Is it true you can balance eggs (or brooms) on end during the spring (or fall) equinox?
Tom Hanks' Father
Viral message claims Tom Hanks' father was an original member and lead singer of the popular vocal quartet The Diamonds in the late fifties and early sixties.
Viral message claims Tom Hanks' father was an original member and lead singer of the popular vocal quartet The Diamonds in the late fifties and early sixties.
Funniest Urban Legends
Funniest Stories: Urban legends can be as funny as the most hilarious jokes -- indeed, sometimes the distinction between the two types of folklore is blurry. Some of the funniest urban legends are, in fact, old or new jokes told convincingly enough to seem true.
Funniest Stories: Urban legends can be as funny as the most hilarious jokes -- indeed, sometimes the distinction between the two types of folklore is blurry. Some of the funniest urban legends are, in fact, old or new jokes told convincingly enough to seem true.
Do They Eat Babies in China?
Dear Urban Legends: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!
Dear Urban Legends: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!
Do Earwigs Crawl in People's Ears and Bore into Their Brains? - Urban Legends
Myth Busted: Earwigs are so named because they crawl into sleeping people's ears and eat their brains.
Myth Busted: Earwigs are so named because they crawl into sleeping people's ears and eat their brains.
Capri Sun Mold Warning
Viral image, apparently authentic, shows a glob of mold found in a pouch of Capri Sun fruit drink. Similar incidents have been reported previously.
Viral image, apparently authentic, shows a glob of mold found in a pouch of Capri Sun fruit drink. Similar incidents have been reported previously.
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Australia PM vs. Muslims
Statements falsely attributed to Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard advise Muslim immigrants to learn English and adapt to Australian culture or leave the country.
Statements falsely attributed to Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard advise Muslim immigrants to learn English and adapt to Australian culture or leave the country.
Flight 297 Atlanta to Houston
Unreported airline incident? Forwarded email by Tedd Petruna purports to convey an eyewitness account of a Muslim terrorist 'dry run' aboard AirTran Airways Flight 297 from Atlanta to Houston on November 17, 2009.
Unreported airline incident? Forwarded email by Tedd Petruna purports to convey an eyewitness account of a Muslim terrorist 'dry run' aboard AirTran Airways Flight 297 from Atlanta to Houston on November 17, 2009.
Super Bowl Myths
Urban legends and myths about the Super Bowl and the American ritual of Super Bowl Sunday.
Urban legends and myths about the Super Bowl and the American ritual of Super Bowl Sunday.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite
Emailed images purport to show the progressive deterioration of a necrotic wound caused by the bite of a poisonous brown recluse spider.
Emailed images purport to show the progressive deterioration of a necrotic wound caused by the bite of a poisonous brown recluse spider.
How to Tell a Two-Way Mirror
Forwarded email purports to give practical advice on how to tell the difference between a two-way mirror and an ordinary mirror.
Forwarded email purports to give practical advice on how to tell the difference between a two-way mirror and an ordinary mirror.
Captain Kangaroo and Lee Marvin, War Buddies? - Urban Legends
In a story supposedly told by actor Lee Marvin on The Tonight Show, he served in the military with fellow U.S. Marine Bob 'Captain Kangaroo' Keeshan.
In a story supposedly told by actor Lee Marvin on The Tonight Show, he served in the military with fellow U.S. Marine Bob 'Captain Kangaroo' Keeshan.
Sir Thomas Crapper
Is it true that a 19th-century British plumber named Sir Thomas Crapper (aka John Crapper) invented the flush toilet?
Is it true that a 19th-century British plumber named Sir Thomas Crapper (aka John Crapper) invented the flush toilet?
Quiz: Sex Urban Legends
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Who Killed Princess Diana?
Fifteen years on, conspiracy theories surrounding the death of Princess Diana have finally been laid to rest... or have they?
Fifteen years on, conspiracy theories surrounding the death of Princess Diana have finally been laid to rest... or have they?
PIN Number Reversal - Use Reverse PIN to Contact Police? - Urban Legends
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of attempted robberies by entering their PIN in reverse.
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of attempted robberies by entering their PIN in reverse.
Facebook Profile Hackers?
Facebook rumor warns that hackers are stealing profile pictures to create fake accounts and impersonate other members.
Facebook rumor warns that hackers are stealing profile pictures to create fake accounts and impersonate other members.
Altoids Mints and Oral Sex - Urban Legends
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before performing fellatio (oral sex) really enhance the pleasure?
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before performing fellatio (oral sex) really enhance the pleasure?
Top 5 Travel Horror Stories
From our urban legends archive, the five absolute worst, most horrifying vacation travel stories we've ever heard!
From our urban legends archive, the five absolute worst, most horrifying vacation travel stories we've ever heard!
JFK: 'I Am a Jelly Donut'
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
A Tootsie Pop Mystery
Where did the rumor come from that you could get a free Tootsie Roll Pop (or a whole bag of them) if you found a star (or an Indian, or both) on your wrapper?
Where did the rumor come from that you could get a free Tootsie Roll Pop (or a whole bag of them) if you found a star (or an Indian, or both) on your wrapper?
Can You Unlock Your Car Door with a Cell Phone? - Urban Legends
Locked out of your automobile? According to this forwarded email, you can have someone transmit a signal from your spare remote key via cell phone and unlock your car door in a pinch.
Locked out of your automobile? According to this forwarded email, you can have someone transmit a signal from your spare remote key via cell phone and unlock your car door in a pinch.
Test Your Urban Legends IQ - Advanced Level
Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!: urban legends level test iq
Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!: urban legends level test iq
New Urban Legends
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Top 10 Grossest Urban Legends
Our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (not!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, mutilating accidents, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story below is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
Our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (not!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, mutilating accidents, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story below is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
Drugs Smuggled in Baby's Corpse
An old urban legend dressed up in new clothes for the Internet
An old urban legend dressed up in new clothes for the Internet
World Record Grizzly Bear (Photos) - Urban Legends
Are emailed pictures of a giant, 1,600-pound, man-eating grizzly bear allegedly killed in Alaska by a hunter or Forest Service employee real?
Are emailed pictures of a giant, 1,600-pound, man-eating grizzly bear allegedly killed in Alaska by a hunter or Forest Service employee real?
Is the Statue of Liberty a Tribute to Black Slaves?
Researchers investigate a challenge to the official history of the Statue of Liberty.
Researchers investigate a challenge to the official history of the Statue of Liberty.
Is Steve Burns Really Dead?
Did Blue's Clues TV show host Steve Burns really die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false yet again...
Did Blue's Clues TV show host Steve Burns really die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false yet again...
Giant Skeletons Found in Middle East? - Urban Legends
Giant Skeletons? Forwarded email claims recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of 'a human of phenomenal size.'
Giant Skeletons? Forwarded email claims recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of 'a human of phenomenal size.'
Lobster & Steak on Food Stamps
Circulating online, a grocery store receipt showing that a welfare recipient in Menominee, Michigan bought large amounts of lobster, porterhouse steak and Mountain Dew with food stamps.
Circulating online, a grocery store receipt showing that a welfare recipient in Menominee, Michigan bought large amounts of lobster, porterhouse steak and Mountain Dew with food stamps.
The Curse of Frankenchicken
Rumor: KFC serves mutant chickens. Is it true that KFC is forbidden to use the word 'chicken' in its advertising because its products are actually made from 'genetically manipulated organisms'?
Rumor: KFC serves mutant chickens. Is it true that KFC is forbidden to use the word 'chicken' in its advertising because its products are actually made from 'genetically manipulated organisms'?
Gold Ring Test for Lead in Lipstick - Urban Legends
Viral alert claims major-brand lipsticks contain 'cancer-causing' lead, which consumers can test for by scratching the surface of a product with a 24K gold ring.
Viral alert claims major-brand lipsticks contain 'cancer-causing' lead, which consumers can test for by scratching the surface of a product with a 24K gold ring.
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms - Urban Legends
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or tapeworms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi).
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or tapeworms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi).
Don't Answer Cell Phone While It's Charging! - Urban Legends
Forwarded email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
Forwarded email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
Celebrity Stomach Pump
Have you heard the one about Rod Stewart passing out on stage? Seems he was rushed to the emergency room, where a pint (or quart, or gallon, depending on version) of semen was pumped out of his stomach!
Have you heard the one about Rod Stewart passing out on stage? Seems he was rushed to the emergency room, where a pint (or quart, or gallon, depending on version) of semen was pumped out of his stomach!
Does a Duck's Quack Echo?
Urban legend: A duck's quack doesn't echo. Myth or fact?
Urban legend: A duck's quack doesn't echo. Myth or fact?
Cough CPR / Self-CPR - Can Coughing Save Your Life in a Heart Attack? - Urban Legends
Cough CPR / Self-CPR - According to this email rumor circulating since 1999, you can save your own life during a heart attack - by coughing.
Cough CPR / Self-CPR - According to this email rumor circulating since 1999, you can save your own life during a heart attack - by coughing.
Hoax: Boy Beaten by Stepfather
FALSE rumor claims Facebook will donate 45 cents per share to cover medical expenses of a 14-year-old boy shot 6 times by his stepfather.
FALSE rumor claims Facebook will donate 45 cents per share to cover medical expenses of a 14-year-old boy shot 6 times by his stepfather.
John Cleese Letter to America (Notice of Revocation of Independence) - Urban Legends
Dec. 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese.
Dec. 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese.
Lemons and Cancer
Forwarded email claims the humble lemon is a 'miraculous product' that kills cancer cells and has been proven '10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy.'
Forwarded email claims the humble lemon is a 'miraculous product' that kills cancer cells and has been proven '10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy.'
Was 'Mr. Gorsky' a Hoax?
A reader writes: 'I absolutely recall hearing these comments on the radio, in 1995, as told by Armstrong following the press conference. Either what I heard was an audio hoax, he was just kidding, or it is the truth. Are you SURE it was a hoax?'
A reader writes: 'I absolutely recall hearing these comments on the radio, in 1995, as told by Armstrong following the press conference. Either what I heard was an audio hoax, he was just kidding, or it is the truth. Are you SURE it was a hoax?'
90# Telephone Scam - Urban Legends
90# Phone Scam. Forwarded email warns telephone customers not to comply with instructions from persons claiming to be phone company service technicians to 'test the line' by dialing 90# or #90.
90# Phone Scam. Forwarded email warns telephone customers not to comply with instructions from persons claiming to be phone company service technicians to 'test the line' by dialing 90# or #90.
Egg Whites as Burn Remedy
Egg whites for burns? Forwarded email touts coating burned skin with raw egg whites as a 'miracle healing' home remedy.
Egg whites for burns? Forwarded email touts coating burned skin with raw egg whites as a 'miracle healing' home remedy.
Pictures of a Dead Mermaid
Emailed pictures allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach near Chennai, India during the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Emailed pictures allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach near Chennai, India during the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Salaries of Charity CEOs Compared - Urban Legends
Viral text purports to compare the salaries of top executives of U.S. and Canadian charitable organizations.
Viral text purports to compare the salaries of top executives of U.S. and Canadian charitable organizations.
Sneakers on Power Lines
Shoefiti: Are sneakers dangling from power lines a sign of gang or drug activity?
Shoefiti: Are sneakers dangling from power lines a sign of gang or drug activity?
Weightlifting Mishap
This shocking image, origin unknown, purports to show a weightlifter suffering from a prolapsed rectum after attempting to lift more weight than his innards could bear.
This shocking image, origin unknown, purports to show a weightlifter suffering from a prolapsed rectum after attempting to lift more weight than his innards could bear.
Why Friday the 13th Is Unlucky
As folklorists, we may not be able to cure paraskevidekatriaphobia (fear of Friday the 13th), but we can at least lend its sufferers a few good excuses. The origins and history of Friday the 13th.
As folklorists, we may not be able to cure paraskevidekatriaphobia (fear of Friday the 13th), but we can at least lend its sufferers a few good excuses. The origins and history of Friday the 13th.
Eminem Dead in Car Crash?
Is Eminem dead? 10-year-old Internet hoax claims famed rap artist Eminem died in a car crash.
Is Eminem dead? 10-year-old Internet hoax claims famed rap artist Eminem died in a car crash.
Human-Dog Hybrid (Photo) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-dog, half-human creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-dog, half-human creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
College Application Essay - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, the most outrageous 'college application essay' ever written.
Circulating via email, the most outrageous 'college application essay' ever written.
'Back to the Future' Hoax
Purported screen capture from the 1989 film 'Back to the Future II' indicates that the future date the main characters traveled through time to was June 27, 2012.
Purported screen capture from the 1989 film 'Back to the Future II' indicates that the future date the main characters traveled through time to was June 27, 2012.
Attack of the Butt Spider
Email prank warns of deadly South American 'Blush Spiders' (scientific name: Arachnius gluteus, or 'Butt Spider') migrating to the U.S. in airliner bathrooms and lurking under public toilet seats everywhere.
Email prank warns of deadly South American 'Blush Spiders' (scientific name: Arachnius gluteus, or 'Butt Spider') migrating to the U.S. in airliner bathrooms and lurking under public toilet seats everywhere.
The Tourist Guy of 9/11 - Urban Legends
The Tourist Guy, aka Tourist of Death, Accidental Tourist of 9/11: A snapshot purportedly taken atop one of the World Trade Center twin towers seconds before the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001.
The Tourist Guy, aka Tourist of Death, Accidental Tourist of 9/11: A snapshot purportedly taken atop one of the World Trade Center twin towers seconds before the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001.
Card Trick: I Can Read Your Mind! - Urban Legends
I can read your mind! Don't believe me? Here, I'll prove it...
I can read your mind! Don't believe me? Here, I'll prove it...
Giants in Greece (Photos)
Hoax images purport to show skeletons of giant human beings (Nephilim or Canaanites) allegedly found in an archaeological dig in Greece.
Hoax images purport to show skeletons of giant human beings (Nephilim or Canaanites) allegedly found in an archaeological dig in Greece.
Proposed 28th Amendment
Viral message quotes a 'proposed 28th Amendment' to the U.S. Constitution: 'Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives...'
Viral message quotes a 'proposed 28th Amendment' to the U.S. Constitution: 'Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives...'
Did Nostradamus Predict 9/11?
Internet rumors claim French seer Nostradamus predicted the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon 500 years before they happened.
Internet rumors claim French seer Nostradamus predicted the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon 500 years before they happened.
Wasp Spray for Self-Defense?
Forwarded email recommends using wasp spray instead of pepper spray for self defense because, allegedly, it's more effective and works at a greater distance.
Forwarded email recommends using wasp spray instead of pepper spray for self defense because, allegedly, it's more effective and works at a greater distance.
What is an urban legend?
Urban Legends FAQ: What is an urban legend?
Urban Legends FAQ: What is an urban legend?
Dr. Roger Starner Jones
Viral op-ed piece by Dr. Roger Starner Jones, an emergency room physician in Jackson, Mississippi, says America's health care problems are due to a 'crisis of culture,' not a shortage of quality medical care.
Viral op-ed piece by Dr. Roger Starner Jones, an emergency room physician in Jackson, Mississippi, says America's health care problems are due to a 'crisis of culture,' not a shortage of quality medical care.
Bottled Water Safety Alert
Bottled water cancer danger? Forwarded email warns women not to drink bottled water that has been left in a car because the heat supposedly releases cancer-causing toxins which 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
Bottled water cancer danger? Forwarded email warns women not to drink bottled water that has been left in a car because the heat supposedly releases cancer-causing toxins which 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
The Eye of God
NASA photo of the Helix Nebula taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders.
NASA photo of the Helix Nebula taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders.
Can People Look Up My Driver's License on the Internet? - Urban Legends
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
Beneful Dog Food Safety Warning - Netlore Archive
Email flier warns that pet owners in different parts of the U.S. have reported the sudden deaths of dogs who ate Beneful Dog Food purchased at Wal-Mart in December 2006
Email flier warns that pet owners in different parts of the U.S. have reported the sudden deaths of dogs who ate Beneful Dog Food purchased at Wal-Mart in December 2006
Top 10 Funniest Urban Legends
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
Work Moose in Harness (Moose Logging) - Urban Legends
Emailed image purportedly shows a full-grown 'work moose' being harnessed to haul wood in a logging operation.
Emailed image purportedly shows a full-grown 'work moose' being harnessed to haul wood in a logging operation.
Zipper Tongue
Viral image purports to show the latest achievement in body modification: a surgically split tongue with a zipper!
Viral image purports to show the latest achievement in body modification: a surgically split tongue with a zipper!
Brain Maggots 1
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Does Obama Have a Son?
'News story' circulating virally via Facebook and other social media claims President Obama has a 19-year-old son named Luther who appeared onstage with his father at the 2012 Democratic National Convention.
'News story' circulating virally via Facebook and other social media claims President Obama has a 19-year-old son named Luther who appeared onstage with his father at the 2012 Democratic National Convention.
The Body in the Bed
A classic urban legend. Honeymooners notice a strange odor in their hotel room and decide to peek under the mattress, only to find... The Body in the Bed!
A classic urban legend. Honeymooners notice a strange odor in their hotel room and decide to peek under the mattress, only to find... The Body in the Bed!
Breast Infestation 1
This image purports to document the medical case of a female anthropologist who failed to seek treatment for a skin rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast. Not a pretty picture.
This image purports to document the medical case of a female anthropologist who failed to seek treatment for a skin rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast. Not a pretty picture.
Niagara Falls Frozen Over in 1911 (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purportedly taken in 1911 offer postcard views of Niagara Falls completely frozen over.
Emailed photos purportedly taken in 1911 offer postcard views of Niagara Falls completely frozen over.
Michelle Obama vs. U.S. Flag
Online rumor claims news video shows First Lady Michelle Obama whispering 'All this for a damn flag' in the President's ear during a flag folding ceremony on the anniversary of 9/11.
Online rumor claims news video shows First Lady Michelle Obama whispering 'All this for a damn flag' in the President's ear during a flag folding ceremony on the anniversary of 9/11.
Is Tommy Hilfiger a Racist?
False rumors alleging that fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger made racist statements on the Oprah Winfrey Show are circulating (again) via email.
False rumors alleging that fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger made racist statements on the Oprah Winfrey Show are circulating (again) via email.
Snake Swallows Man! - Urban Legends
Series of viral images purports to show a gigantic snake - said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole.
Series of viral images purports to show a gigantic snake - said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole.
Cindy Williams vs. Military Pay Raise - Urban Legends
Did Cindy Williams, the beloved 'Shirley' of television's 'Laverne and Shirley,' write an op-ed article condemning military pay raises?
Did Cindy Williams, the beloved 'Shirley' of television's 'Laverne and Shirley,' write an op-ed article condemning military pay raises?