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!
Don't Flash Your Headlights
Online variants of a familiar urban legend claim that innocent people who flash their headlights at gang members' cars will be chased down and killed as part of a gang initiation game.
Online variants of a familiar urban legend claim that innocent people who flash their headlights at gang members' cars will be chased down and killed as part of a gang initiation game.
Top 13 Scariest Urban Legends!
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 13 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 13 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
The Escherian Stairwell
Viral video purports to show an endless 'Escherian' staircase at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York.
Viral video purports to show an endless 'Escherian' staircase at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York.
Humans Can Lick, Too
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' A popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if unbelievable - Internet chain letter.
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' A popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if unbelievable - Internet chain letter.
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.
Flash Your Headlights and Die!
Resurgence of a terrifying urban legend about aspiring gang members firing at oncoming drivers who innocently flash their headlights.
Resurgence of a terrifying urban legend about aspiring gang members firing at oncoming drivers who innocently flash their headlights.
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.
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
Was Mr. Rogers a Marine Corps Sniper / 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)?
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)?
'Supermoon' on June 23, 2013?
The full moon at perigee on June 23, 2013 - called a 'supermoon' - will be the largest and closest full moon of the year.
The full moon at perigee on June 23, 2013 - called a 'supermoon' - will be the largest and closest full moon of the year.
Hercules, 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.
Jamie Lee Curtis, Hermaphrodite?
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.
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!
The Curse of Frankenchicken
Is it true that KFC serves 'mutant chickens' and cannot legally use the word 'chicken' in advertisements because its products are made from genetically manipulated organisms?
Is it true that KFC serves 'mutant chickens' and cannot legally use the word 'chicken' in advertisements because its products are made from genetically manipulated organisms?
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
Sentencing of 'Shoe Bomber' Richard Reid -...
Circulating via email and social media, the text of U.S. District Court Judge William Young's statement upon sentencing convicted terrorist 'shoe bomber' Richard Reid.
Circulating via email and social media, the text of U.S. District Court Judge William Young's statement upon sentencing convicted terrorist 'shoe bomber' Richard Reid.
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!
About that Thing with Richard Gere and the...
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.
Aren't You Glad You Didn'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...
The Babysitter and 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.
Do Earwigs Crawl in People's Ears and Bore into...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Winged Spider
Viral image purports to show a newspaper clipping confirming that scientists have discovered a 'winged spider.'
Viral image purports to show a newspaper clipping confirming that scientists have discovered a 'winged spider.'
13 Creepy Tales to Tell After Dark
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...'
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.
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.
Facebook 'Graph App' and Privacy
Viral postings claim Facebook's new 'Graph App' (Graph Search) compromises members' privacy by making all their photos, comments and likes visible to total strangers.
Viral postings claim Facebook's new 'Graph App' (Graph Search) compromises members' privacy by making all their photos, comments and likes visible to total strangers.
FALSE: Australia Prime Minister Tells Muslim...
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.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite Pictures
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.
Viral Alert Says Don't Drink Bottled Water Kept...
Bottled water cancer danger? Viral text warns women not to drink bottled water left in a warm car because the heat allegedly causes cancer-producing toxins to 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
Bottled water cancer danger? Viral text warns women not to drink bottled water left in a warm car because the heat allegedly causes cancer-producing toxins to 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
Pictures: Mermaid Body Found After Tsunami
Viral images 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.
Viral images 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.
Can People Look Up My Driver's License on the...
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
Why Is the Ocean Salty? Whale Sperm! - Urban...
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!
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...
Listerine Mosquito Control
Forwarded email claims spraying an outside area with Listerine mouthwash repels and/or kills every mosquito in the vicinity.
Forwarded email claims spraying an outside area with Listerine mouthwash repels and/or kills every mosquito in the vicinity.
Slender Man
The Internet boogeyman known as Slender Man (aka Slenderman) is neither real nor an urban legend, but rather a crowd-sourced fiction.
The Internet boogeyman known as Slender Man (aka Slenderman) is neither real nor an urban legend, but rather a crowd-sourced fiction.
About that Thing with Richard Gere and the Gerbil
Extracting the truth about a Hollywood urban legend, cont.
Extracting the truth about a Hollywood urban legend, cont.
Ciara's Secret Sex-Change Operation
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.
Ants in the Brain
Doctors looking for the cause of severe headaches and facial itching in a young child discover that ants have crawled in his ear and infested his brain.
Doctors looking for the cause of severe headaches and facial itching in a young child discover that ants have crawled in his ear and infested his brain.
'I'm 76 (or 83) and I'm Tired' by Bill Cosby
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.'
Does Vicks VapoRub on Soles of Feet Relieve...
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.
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.
Did Einstein Prove 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.
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.
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...
Tupac Is Alive! - Full Text of Purported CNN...
Full text of purported CNN news story reporting the 'resurrection' of Tupac Shakur.
Full text of purported CNN news story reporting the 'resurrection' of Tupac Shakur.
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.
Things You Never Knew Your Cell Phone Could Do
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.
Is a Dog's Mouth Cleaner than a Human's?
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...
Bottle Bombs / Drano Bombs
Viral alerts warn the public to beware of 'bottle bombs' or 'Drano bombs,' homemade explosive devices consisting of water, Drano, and aluminum foil in plastic bottles.
Viral alerts warn the public to beware of 'bottle bombs' or 'Drano bombs,' homemade explosive devices consisting of water, Drano, and aluminum foil in plastic bottles.
Do Bar Codes Reveal Where a Product Is Made?
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.
Is 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?
The \$250 Neiman Marcus 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.
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.
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.
'It's Not the People Who Vote that Count; It's...
Did Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin once say 'It's not the people who vote that count, it's the people who count the votes'?
Did Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin once say 'It's not the people who vote that count, it's the people who count the votes'?
Jamie Lee Curtis, Hermaphrodite (cont.)
Longstanding rumors, cont.
Longstanding rumors, cont.
Claim: Leftover Onions Are 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.
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.
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!
Medical Excise Tax in Obamacare
Viral image of a customer receipt from Cabela's sporting goods store is offered as proof of a 'hidden' 2.3% medical excise tax under Obamacare.
Viral image of a customer receipt from Cabela's sporting goods store is offered as proof of a 'hidden' 2.3% medical excise tax under Obamacare.
Dial 112 on Cell Phone to Contact Police in...
Female college student pursued by a cop impersonator is rescued by a real police officer after dialing 112 (or *112, or #112) emergency number on her cell phone.
Female college student pursued by a cop impersonator is rescued by a real police officer after dialing 112 (or *112, or #112) emergency number on her cell phone.
JFK: 'I Am a Jelly Donut' ('Ich bin ein...
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?
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?
Urban Legends: The Top 5 Travel Horror Stories
From the Urban Legends archive, the five absolute worst, most dreadful, horrifying vacation travel stories we've ever heard!
From the Urban Legends archive, the five absolute worst, most dreadful, horrifying vacation travel stories we've ever heard!
Lowe's Selling American Flag Doormats?
Recycled rumor circulating since May 2012 claims Lowe's home improvement stores offer American flag doormats for sale.
Recycled rumor circulating since May 2012 claims Lowe's home improvement stores offer American flag doormats for sale.
The Two-Striped Telamonia 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.
'Corpus Christi' Movie (Gay Jesus)
'Corpus Christi' movie: Decades-old viral petition aims to block the release of a movie allegedly depicting Jesus Christ and his disciples as gay.
'Corpus Christi' movie: Decades-old viral petition aims to block the release of a movie allegedly depicting Jesus Christ and his disciples as gay.
Hoax List: Current Netlore & Urban Legends
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.
DOJ & FBI Raid News Media Offices? No, It's...
Fake 'news story' gone viral claims agents of the FBI and DOJ raided the offices of the National Report after it published a scathing story about President Obama.
Fake 'news story' gone viral claims agents of the FBI and DOJ raided the offices of the National Report after it published a scathing story about President Obama.
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
Facebook Profile Hacker Warning
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.
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.
Origin of the S-Word - 'Ship High in Transit' -...
In which we are told, and with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit' (or 'Stow 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' (or 'Stow High in Transit'), a supposed nautical phrase.
Giant Coconut Crab
Viral images of gargantuan specimens of Birgus latro - the coconut crab - named for its preferred diet of fallen coconuts and said to be the world's largest land-dwelling arthropod.
Viral images of gargantuan specimens of Birgus latro - the coconut crab - named for its preferred diet of fallen coconuts and said to be the world's largest land-dwelling arthropod.
Gen. Black Jack Pershing vs. Muslim Terrorists...
Did U.S. Gen. 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism by executing Muslim terrorists and burying them with pig's blood and entrails?
Did U.S. Gen. 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism by executing Muslim terrorists and burying them with pig's blood and entrails?
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.
The Bristol Zoo Parking Attendant
Email tale about 'a very pleasant attendant' who, for 25 years running, showed up every day at Bristol Zoo and collected parking fees from visitors, then one day simply vanished with all the cash. Turns out the zoo had never hired a car park attendant. The man now lives in a villa in Spain.
Email tale about 'a very pleasant attendant' who, for 25 years running, showed up every day at Bristol Zoo and collected parking fees from visitors, then one day simply vanished with all the cash. Turns out the zoo had never hired a car park attendant. The man now lives in a villa in Spain.
Attack of the Camel Spiders!
Viral photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of gigantic arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true the venom of a camel spider is deadly?
Viral photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of gigantic arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true the venom of a camel spider is deadly?
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.
Speeding Ticket Frenzy - Urban Legends
Online rumors warn that state troopers are participating in a 'speeding ticket frenzy' and writing citations at a faster-than-usual pace to increase state revenues.
Online rumors warn that state troopers are participating in a 'speeding ticket frenzy' and writing citations at a faster-than-usual pace to increase state revenues.
Are Muslims Exempt from ObamaCare Insurance...
Viral rumor claims health care reform legislation passed in 2010 ('ObamaCare') exempts Muslims from the government mandate to purchase insurance, calling this an instance of 'Dhimmitude.'
Viral rumor claims health care reform legislation passed in 2010 ('ObamaCare') exempts Muslims from the government mandate to purchase insurance, calling this an instance of 'Dhimmitude.'
How to Detect 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.
Can You Unlock Your Car Door with a Cell Phone?...
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.
Microchip Implants Required Under Obamacare? No.
Viral warnings claim that a provision in Obamacare will require all Americans to receive RFID microchip implants beginning March 23, 2013.
Viral warnings claim that a provision in Obamacare will require all Americans to receive RFID microchip implants beginning March 23, 2013.
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?
Michelle Obama vs. the American 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.
They Hurt Her (The Death of David Gregory)
Chain letter circulating via social media claims 16-year-old David Gregory was found dead in a sewer after reading the message and failing to repost it. Did Carmen Winstead kill him?
Chain letter circulating via social media claims 16-year-old David Gregory was found dead in a sewer after reading the message and failing to repost it. Did Carmen Winstead kill him?
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Can You Balance Eggs on End During the Spring...
Is it true you can balance eggs (or brooms) on end only during the spring (or fall) equinox?
Is it true you can balance eggs (or brooms) on end only during the spring (or fall) equinox?
Quiz: Sex Urban Legends
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
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?
'Facebook Privacy Notice' Is Useless
DON'T FALL FOR IT! Viral text purports to protect the privacy and intellectual property rights of Facebook members who copy and paste it to their walls. Not true.
DON'T FALL FOR IT! Viral text purports to protect the privacy and intellectual property rights of Facebook members who copy and paste it to their walls. Not true.
The Choking Doberman
The Choking Doberman - a classic urban legend retold
The Choking Doberman - a classic urban legend retold
Humans Can Lick, Too (cont.)
Popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter. Page 2.
Popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter. Page 2.
Giant Wild Boar Shot in Conroe, Texas?
Viral images of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed by a radiology technician in Conroe, Texas (or Potosi, Missouri, or King's Point, Sun City Center, Florida, depending on version).
Viral images of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed by a radiology technician in Conroe, Texas (or Potosi, Missouri, or King's Point, Sun City Center, Florida, depending on version).
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.
Tips on Pumping Gas
Netlore Archive: Viral text purports to share a petroleum industry insider's tips for saving money at the gas pump.
Netlore Archive: Viral text purports to share a petroleum industry insider's tips for saving money at the gas pump.
Toxic Benzene in Parked Cars?
Forwarded email claims car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene emitted by dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It recommends opening windows to expel trapped benzene gas before turning on the car air conditioner.
Forwarded email claims car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene emitted by dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It recommends opening windows to expel trapped benzene gas before turning on the car air conditioner.
Is Ogling Women's Breasts Good for Men's Health?
'Medical study' supposedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims staring at women's breasts improves heart health and lengthens lifespan in men.
'Medical study' supposedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims staring at women's breasts improves heart health and lengthens lifespan in men.
'Black Lion' Picture
Photo circulating via social media purports to show a rare, all-black lion discovered in Africa. (P.S., it's fake.)
Photo circulating via social media purports to show a rare, all-black lion discovered in Africa. (P.S., it's fake.)
Giant Skeletons Found in Middle East? - Urban...
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.'
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.
Claim: Cell Phone Numbers Are 'Going 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.
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.
Is Eminem Dead? Did Eminem Die in a 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.
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?
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!
Photo Shows Police Officer Pepper-Spraying a...
Viral image shows a policeman apparently spraying a child with mace or pepper spray.
Viral image shows a policeman apparently spraying a child with mace or pepper spray.
A Little Girl Called Clarissa
Online chain letter tells the story of Clarissa, a little girl imprisoned in a mental hospital for killing her mother and father. And that was just for starters.
Online chain letter tells the story of Clarissa, a little girl imprisoned in a mental hospital for killing her mother and father. And that was just for starters.
New & Updated
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.
World Record Grizzly Bear (Photos) - Urban...
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?
The Teacher and Little Teddy Stoddard - Urban...
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.
Onions and Flu
Onions and flu: Forwarded email claims placing raw, cut 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 raw, cut onions around the home will 'collect' or 'absorb' any flu virus present and protect members of the household from coming down with influenza.
Rumor: Tommy Hilfiger Is 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.
Myth Busted: A Duck's Quack Doesn't 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?
Do Birds Explode If They Eat Wedding Rice?
People say you shouldn't throw rice at weddings because birds will eat it, the grains will expand in their stomachs, and they will explode.
People say you shouldn't throw rice at weddings because birds will eat it, the grains will expand in their stomachs, and they will explode.
The Escherian Stairwell (Screenshot)
A screenshot revealing a special effects/editing blooper in the viral video 'The Escherian Stairwell.'
A screenshot revealing a special effects/editing blooper in the viral video 'The Escherian Stairwell.'
The Death of Little Mikey by Pop Rocks and Soda
Did the actor who played 'Little Mikey' in Life cereal commercials during the early '70s die as a result of consuming Pop Rocks and soda at the same time?
Did the actor who played 'Little Mikey' in Life cereal commercials during the early '70s die as a result of consuming Pop Rocks and soda at the same time?
Myth Busted: Sir Thomas Crapper Invented the...
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?
Baby Carrots and Chlorine
Viral text claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
Viral text claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
Is Steve Burns (the Blue's Clues Guy) Really...
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...
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...
Video of Obama Kicking Door Open
Viral video purports to show President Obama kicking open a door as he storms out of a White House press conference.
Viral video purports to show President Obama kicking open a door as he storms out of a White House press conference.
Email: Car Thieves Clone Remote Keyless Entry...
Forwarded email urges vehicle owners to lock doors manually instead of using a remote key, otherwise thieves might be able to clone the security code (a technique called 'code grabbing') and gain entry to the vehicle.
Forwarded email urges vehicle owners to lock doors manually instead of using a remote key, otherwise thieves might be able to clone the security code (a technique called 'code grabbing') and gain entry to the vehicle.
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!
Giant Snake Found in Red Sea
HOAX: Viral images purport to show an unbelievably huge snake found and killed in the Red Sea by a team of Egyptian scientists.
HOAX: Viral images purport to show an unbelievably huge snake found and killed in the Red Sea by a team of Egyptian scientists.
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.
Top 10 Funniest Internet Urban Legends
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
The Obama Phone - Free Cell Phones for Welfare...
Free Obama Phones? Viral rumor claims the Obama administration has started a program whereby taxpayer money is being 'redistributed' to provide free cell phones and service to welfare recipients.
Free Obama Phones? Viral rumor claims the Obama administration has started a program whereby taxpayer money is being 'redistributed' to provide free cell phones and service to welfare recipients.
The World's First Male Pregnancy
The world's first pregnant man? It's funny, yes, and even sounds convincing to some. Is it art or urban legend?
The world's first pregnant man? It's funny, yes, and even sounds convincing to some. Is it art or urban legend?
Origin of the Word 'Picnic' - Urban Legends
A lame email joke contends that the word 'picnic' originated in southern 'family outings' during which white people lynched African Americans.
A lame email joke contends that the word 'picnic' originated in southern 'family outings' during which white people lynched African Americans.
Merman / Mermaid Carcass Found on Beach...
Emailed photos purportedly show the carcass of a merman (or mermaid) washed up on a beach variously said to be located in Venda, South Africa; Cebu, The Philippines; Malaysia; and Fort Desoto Beach, Florida.
Emailed photos purportedly show the carcass of a merman (or mermaid) washed up on a beach variously said to be located in Venda, South Africa; Cebu, The Philippines; Malaysia; and Fort Desoto Beach, Florida.
Crime Alert: Eggs on Windshield / Fake Baby in...
Viral alert warns that criminals are using new techniques to trick drivers into stopping their vehicles: throwing raw eggs at windshields and leaving infant car seats with fake babies in them beside the road.
Viral alert warns that criminals are using new techniques to trick drivers into stopping their vehicles: throwing raw eggs at windshields and leaving infant car seats with fake babies in them beside the road.
Young Frances Bavier ('Aunt Bee' on The Andy...
Viral image purportedly shows the young Frances Bavier (the actress who played Aunt Bee on the Andy Griffith Show) as a pin-up model.
Viral image purportedly shows the young Frances Bavier (the actress who played Aunt Bee on the Andy Griffith Show) as a pin-up model.
Don't Answer Cell Phone While It's Charging! -...
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.
Grizzly Bear Victim
Email caption: 'This is not a joke and is pretty gross. If you are faint of heart or stomach don't look at grizz.jpg. This is why you don't mess with Grizzly bears! Warning the Grizzly picture is pretty gross, it's what's left of one of his victims!'
Email caption: 'This is not a joke and is pretty gross. If you are faint of heart or stomach don't look at grizz.jpg. This is why you don't mess with Grizzly bears! Warning the Grizzly picture is pretty gross, it's what's left of one of his victims!'
Is the Statue of Liberty a Tribute to Black...
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.
Giants in Greece
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.
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.
Fear of Licking
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn. Case in point: cockroach eggs on envelopes.
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn. Case in point: cockroach eggs on envelopes.
Giant Florida Rattlesnake
Viral images purport to show a 15-foot-long, 170-pound eastern diamondback rattlesnake caught in a subdivision near Jacksonville, Florida.
Viral images purport to show a 15-foot-long, 170-pound eastern diamondback rattlesnake caught in a subdivision near Jacksonville, Florida.
Submit a Hoax / Rumor / Urban Legend for...
Help me debunk urban legends, rumors, and Internet hoaxes!
Help me debunk urban legends, rumors, and Internet hoaxes!
Giant Spider in Manchester
Viral image purports to show a huge, long-legged spider lurking in the corner of a house in Manchester, England.
Viral image purports to show a huge, long-legged spider lurking in the corner of a house in Manchester, England.
Toxic Benzene in Parked Cars? (cont.)
Forwarded email claims car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene emitted by dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It recommends opening windows to expel trapped benzene gas before turning on the car air conditioner or driving.
Forwarded email claims car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene emitted by dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It recommends opening windows to expel trapped benzene gas before turning on the car air conditioner or driving.
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.
Monkey Orchid Photo
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.
The Mysterious Staircase - A Miraculous...
Emailed slideshow tells the story of a miraculous staircase at Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico and its mysterious construction by an unknown carpenter without the use of nails, glue, or central support.
Emailed slideshow tells the story of a miraculous staircase at Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico and its mysterious construction by an unknown carpenter without the use of nails, glue, or central support.