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!
'Postcard' or 'Hallmark Postcard' Virus Hoax - Urban Legends
Hoax email alert warns of 'the worst virus ever' circulating in the form of an attachment labeled 'POSTCARD' or 'POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK'
Hoax email alert warns of 'the worst virus ever' circulating in the form of an attachment labeled 'POSTCARD' or 'POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK'
'Twas the Spoof Before Xmas
Apocryphal versions of 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' ('The Night Before Christmas'), one of the most parodied poems in the English language.
Apocryphal versions of 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' ('The Night Before Christmas'), one of the most parodied poems in the English language.
Eminem Dead in Car Crash?
Web hoax claims famed rapper Eminem died in a car crash.
Web hoax claims famed rapper Eminem died in a car crash.
Amazing Tsunami Picture - Urban Legends
Emailed image purports to show the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004 washing ashore on the Thai island of Phuket (or Indonesia, depending on version
Emailed image purports to show the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004 washing ashore on the Thai island of Phuket (or Indonesia, depending on version
Sarah Palin Bikini Picture - Urban Legends
Emailed image purports to show Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin posing for a photo sporting an American flag bikini and a rifle.
Emailed image purports to show Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin posing for a photo sporting an American flag bikini and a rifle.
Hercules, World's Biggest Dog - Urban Legends
Emailed image of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
Emailed image of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
Christmas Folklore Quiz
Quiz: Christmas traditions, history and folklore: christmas folklore christmas history history traditions quiz test test your knowledge
Quiz: Christmas traditions, history and folklore: christmas folklore christmas history history traditions quiz test test your knowledge
Ericsson 'Free Laptop' Hoax
Email chain letter claims phone manufacturer Ericsson will give away free laptop computers to those who forward the message to at least eight people.
Email chain letter claims phone manufacturer Ericsson will give away free laptop computers to those who forward the message to at least eight people.
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.
Cell Phone Do Not Call List
Cell phone numbers going public? Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to dial 888-382-1222 and enter their numbers on the federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
Cell phone numbers going public? Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to dial 888-382-1222 and enter their numbers on the federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
Top 25 Urban Legends
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
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
Are All of Santa's Reindeer Female? - Urban Legends
Is it true that male reindeer lose their antlers by December, therefore all of Santa's reindeer -- including Rudolph -- must be female?
Is it true that male reindeer lose their antlers by December, therefore all of Santa's reindeer -- including Rudolph -- must be female?
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.
The \$250 Cookie Recipe
Here is 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 is 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.
Carson Williams' Christmas House (Video) - Urban Legends
Viral video of Carson Williams' suburban house decorated with animated Christmas lights synchronized to 'Wizards of Winter' by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Viral video of Carson Williams' suburban house decorated with animated Christmas lights synchronized to 'Wizards of Winter' by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Mr. Rogers a Sniper?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine sniper (or Navy Seal)?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine sniper (or Navy Seal)?
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.
Best Buy vs. Christmas - Urban Legends
Forwarded email urges a consumer boycott of Best Buy on the grounds that its advertising recognizes a Muslim holiday but not Christmas.
Forwarded email urges a consumer boycott of Best Buy on the grounds that its advertising recognizes a Muslim holiday but not Christmas.
The Eye of God? (Hubble Telescope Photo) - Urban Legends
NASA photo taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders
NASA photo taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders
'National Gang Week' Hoax
Forwarded email purportedly issued by the Tennessee Department of Correction warns of 'National Gang Week' activities including the use of a baby car seat with to trick women into stopping their vehicles and setting themselves up for attack.
Forwarded email purportedly issued by the Tennessee Department of Correction warns of 'National Gang Week' activities including the use of a baby car seat with to trick women into stopping their vehicles and setting themselves up for attack.
Richard Gere & the Gerbil
I don't mean to sound cranky, but all too often when I tell folks I debunk urban legends for a living, the first question that pops out of their mouths is: 'What about that thing with Richard Gere and the gerbil? Is THAT true?'
I don't mean to sound cranky, but all too often when I tell folks I debunk urban legends for a living, the first question that pops out of their mouths is: 'What about that thing with Richard Gere and the gerbil? Is THAT true?'
Is Breast Ogling Healthy?
'Medical study' purportedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims research has shown that ogling women's breasts increases men's lifespans.
'Medical study' purportedly published in the New England Journal of Medicine claims research has shown that ogling women's breasts increases men's lifespans.
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!
Shark Attacks Helicopter! - Urban Legends
Photo purporting to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
Photo purporting to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
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.
Giant Texas Rattlesnake - Urban Legends
Emailed picture of a giant rattlesnake killed in Texas, allegedly measuring 9 feet 1 inch in length and weighing 97 pounds.
Emailed picture of a giant rattlesnake killed in Texas, allegedly measuring 9 feet 1 inch in length and weighing 97 pounds.
Al Sharpton on Tiger Woods?
Forwarded email quotes Rev. Al Sharpton criticizing professional golfer Tiger Woods for his 'lack of mistress diversity.'
Forwarded email quotes Rev. Al Sharpton criticizing professional golfer Tiger Woods for his 'lack of mistress diversity.'
Animal-Human Hybrid (Photo) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
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.
Dumb Criminal Attempts to Rob Crowded Gun Shop - Urban Legends
In this email tale circulated during the 1990s and subsequently revived as a '2005 Darwin Award contender,' a less-than-clever criminal gets his just desserts when he attempts to rob a crowded gun shop full of well-armed patrons
In this email tale circulated during the 1990s and subsequently revived as a '2005 Darwin Award contender,' a less-than-clever criminal gets his just desserts when he attempts to rob a crowded gun shop full of well-armed patrons
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.
Obama's College Transcripts?
'Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court' - Circulating via email, a purported AP news story claims transcripts released by Occidental College prove that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship awarded to foreign-born students only.
'Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court' - Circulating via email, a purported AP news story claims transcripts released by Occidental College prove that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship awarded to foreign-born students only.
World's Tallest Woman - Urban Legends
Emailed pictures purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds. Is she really the tallest woman in the world?
Emailed pictures purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds. Is she really the tallest woman in the world?
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
Burundanga Drug Warning
Forwarded emails warn that criminals in the U.S. and Canada are using business cards impregnated with a potent street drug called burundanga (aka scopolamine) to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Forwarded emails warn that criminals in the U.S. and Canada are using business cards impregnated with a potent street drug called burundanga (aka scopolamine) to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
THAT'S Why the Ocean Is So Salty! - 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!
SB-2099 - Diabolical Conspiracy to Tax Handguns - Urban Legends
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle it with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle it with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
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?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The Eye of God
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Bill Gates Is Sharing His Fortune! - Urban Legends
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, they're not conducting an email beta test, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his hard-earned fortune with people who forward silly chain letters.
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, they're not conducting an email beta test, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his hard-earned fortune with people who forward silly chain letters.
Is Megan Fox Really a Man?
Internet rumors claim voluptuous actress Megan Fox is actually either a man in drag (transvestite), a transsexual ('tranny'), or was born a hermaphrodite and underwent surgery to become a woman.
Internet rumors claim voluptuous actress Megan Fox is actually either a man in drag (transvestite), a transsexual ('tranny'), or was born a hermaphrodite and underwent surgery to become a woman.
Puppy with a Heart (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos show a chihuahua puppy born in Japan with a heart-shaped pattern in its coat.
Emailed photos show a chihuahua puppy born in Japan with a heart-shaped pattern in its coat.
Pit Bull vs. Porcupine (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed images show the result of an unfortunate encounter between a 'pit bull' and a porcupine.
Emailed images show the result of an unfortunate encounter between a 'pit bull' and a porcupine.
Hercules the Liger (Photos) - Urban Legends
AUTHENTIC: Emailed photos of a 10-foot 'liger' (a cross between a lion and a tiger) named Hercules.
AUTHENTIC: Emailed photos of a 10-foot 'liger' (a cross between a lion and a tiger) named Hercules.
Satan's Face in Smoke on 9-11 - Urban Legends
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
Giant Catfish Picture (Photo) - Urban Legends
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
Ben Stein: Christmas Confessions - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author, pundit, actor, and game show host Ben Stein.
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author, pundit, actor, and game show host Ben Stein.
Secret Cell Phone Tips?
Email flier purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use
Email flier purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use
Is Barack Obama a Muslim? - Urban Legends
Email rumor alleges that U.S. presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama is a Muslim who has lied about his religious background, including his claim to being a devout Christian
Email rumor alleges that U.S. presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama is a Muslim who has lied about his religious background, including his claim to being a devout Christian
Amazing Music Machine (Video) - Urban Legends
Emailed video of an 'amazing music machine' allegedly manufactured out of farm equipment parts at the University of Iowa
Emailed video of an 'amazing music machine' allegedly manufactured out of farm equipment parts at the University of Iowa
Was a Giant Human Skeleton Found in Saudi Arabia Desert? - Urban Legends
'Recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of a human of phenomenal size'
'Recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of a human of phenomenal size'
The Urban Legends Slide Show
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
World's Biggest Dog
Emailed image of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
Emailed image of a gargantuan dog named Hercules, purportedly the Guinness Record holder for World's Biggest Dog.
A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore
'A Visit from St. Nicholas' - the classic poem attributed to Clement Clarke Moore
'A Visit from St. Nicholas' - the classic poem attributed to Clement Clarke Moore
Origin of the F-Word - Urban Legends
In which we are told with a straight face that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King' (or some variation thereof).
In which we are told with a straight face that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King' (or some variation thereof).
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or worms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi)
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or worms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi)
*77 or #77 Emergency Cell Phone Feature - Urban Legends
Female college student pulled over in her car by a cop-impersonating would-be rapist is rescued by a real officer after dialing #77 (or *77) on her cell phone.
Female college student pulled over in her car by a cop-impersonating would-be rapist is rescued by a real officer after dialing #77 (or *77) on her cell phone.
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.
Piranha on Steroids
Circulating via email, a photo of fishermen holding a large fish with a mouthful of razor-sharp teeth, variously captioned: 'Piranha on Steroids' or 'World Record Piranha.'
Circulating via email, a photo of fishermen holding a large fish with a mouthful of razor-sharp teeth, variously captioned: 'Piranha on Steroids' or 'World Record Piranha.'
Mermaid Pictures - Dead Mermaid Found After Tsunami - Urban Legends
Emailed photos allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach at Chennai, India by the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Emailed photos allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach at Chennai, India by the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Harold Estes Letter to Obama
Emailed letter attributed to 95-year-old World War II Navy veteran Harold B. Estes lambastes President Obama for 'telling our friends & enemies despicable lies' and advises him to 'shape up and start acting like an American.'
Emailed letter attributed to 95-year-old World War II Navy veteran Harold B. Estes lambastes President Obama for 'telling our friends & enemies despicable lies' and advises him to 'shape up and start acting like an American.'
General 'Black Jack' Pershing vs. Muslim Terrorists - Urban Legends
Did U.S. General 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism in 1911 by executing a group of Muslim terrorists and burying them in a grave filled with pig's blood and entrails?
Did U.S. General 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism in 1911 by executing a group of Muslim terrorists and burying them in a grave filled with pig's blood and entrails?
Photos of Giant Wild Boar?
Emailed photos of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed in Conroe, Texas by a radiology technician.
Emailed photos of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed in Conroe, Texas by a radiology technician.
Urban Legends Sex Quiz
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Camel Spider Picture - Urban Legends
Camel spider picture. Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true their venom is deadly to humans?
Camel spider picture. Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true their venom is deadly to humans?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Maggot-Stuffed Oreos #1
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Brown Recluse Spider Bite (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purport to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
Emailed photos purport to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
Chimera
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
New Carjacking Scheme?
Email rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a sticker or flyer on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
Email rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a sticker or flyer on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
90# Telephone Scam - Urban Legends
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.
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 Legend of 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.
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.
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
Snopes Under Fire
Snopes 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 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.
Jelly Bracelets - An Invitation to Sex? - Urban Legends
It is widely believed - apparently more so by adults than by the teenagers themselves - that the 'jelly bracelets' currently popular among junior high school students are color-coded according to the wearer's willingness to perform certain sexual acts
It is widely believed - apparently more so by adults than by the teenagers themselves - that the 'jelly bracelets' currently popular among junior high school students are color-coded according to the wearer's willingness to perform certain sexual acts
You've Received a Postcard (Trojan / Virus) - Urban Legends
REAL VIRUS: Messages with subject headers such as 'You've received a postcard from a school-mate!' or 'You have received a Hallmark E-Card,' etc. may contain links to malicious Web pages.
REAL VIRUS: Messages with subject headers such as 'You've received a postcard from a school-mate!' or 'You have received a Hallmark E-Card,' etc. may contain links to malicious Web pages.
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #1
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Fear of Licking
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn...
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn...
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Obama on the Phone
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Breast Infestation
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Maggot-Stuffed Oreos #2
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Pelosi's Big Fat Jet
Email rumor claims Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi uses a gas-guzzling, 200-seat jet to commute nonstop between Washington, D.C. and California three days a week at an annual cost to taxpayers of $5,760,000.
Email rumor claims Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi uses a gas-guzzling, 200-seat jet to commute nonstop between Washington, D.C. and California three days a week at an annual cost to taxpayers of $5,760,000.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms (#2)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Half Human, Half Animal
Most copies of this viral image are accompanied by a caption reading, 'Look at the human dog!' In reality, it's a sculpture created by artist Patricia Piccinini.
Most copies of this viral image are accompanied by a caption reading, 'Look at the human dog!' In reality, it's a sculpture created by artist Patricia Piccinini.
Man Eats Baby 1
'Dear Guide: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing and, to say the least, disgusting. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan for $70 to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!'
'Dear Guide: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing and, to say the least, disgusting. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan for $70 to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!'
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Animal-Human Hybrid
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
412-Pound Deer Killed (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska, depending on version).
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska, depending on version).
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Sarah Palin Bikini Pic
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Altoids Effect - Altoids Mints and Oral Sex - Urban Legends
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before fellatio (oral sex) enhance the pleasure?
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before fellatio (oral sex) enhance the pleasure?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - World's Biggest Dog
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Cook County Correctional Center (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purportedly show the stylish and comfortable new digs of prison inmates in Chicago's Cook County Correctional Center.
Emailed photos purportedly show the stylish and comfortable new digs of prison inmates in Chicago's Cook County Correctional Center.
Crocodile Eats Golfer (Photo) - Urban Legends
The impatient golfer was not located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, Ole Mose was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
The impatient golfer was not located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, Ole Mose was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms
A set of photos showing 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).
A set of photos showing 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).
Mermaid Pictures - Dead Mermaid Found in the Philippines - Urban Legends
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
Snake Swallows Man - Netlore Archive
Series of photos circulating via email purports to show a gigantic snake - said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole
Series of photos circulating via email purports to show a gigantic snake - said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole
Best Buy Return Policy
Forwarded email recounts a customer's unhappy experience attempting to return merchandise and obtain a cash refund at a Best Buy store.
Forwarded email recounts a customer's unhappy experience attempting to return merchandise and obtain a cash refund at a Best Buy store.
Hoax: Air France Crash Photos - Urban Legends
HOAX: Emailed photos purportedly taken inside the passenger cabin of Air France Flight 447 moments before it broke up over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009 (originally circulated as photos of Gol Airlines Flight 1907 after mid-air collision in 2006).
HOAX: Emailed photos purportedly taken inside the passenger cabin of Air France Flight 447 moments before it broke up over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009 (originally circulated as photos of Gol Airlines Flight 1907 after mid-air collision in 2006).
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
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!'
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...
Camel Spiders
Taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq, this snapshot shows a pair of huge, scary-looking insects known as camel spiders.
Taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq, this snapshot shows a pair of huge, scary-looking insects known as camel spiders.
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 for today's high school students.
Circulating via email, the text of a speech allegedly given by Bill Gates in which he sets out 11 rules of life for today's high school students.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Beer Can Townhouse (#1)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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...
Man Eats Baby 2
'Dear Guide: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing and, to say the least, disgusting. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan for $70 to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!'
'Dear Guide: I received an email last week which was quite disturbing and, to say the least, disgusting. It is about dead babies that can be bought from hospitals in Taiwan for $70 to meet the high demand for grilled and barbequed babies!'
Motorcycle / Boating Accident
Depending on which version you receive, the caption accompanying this emailed photo claims this poor patient was impaled on a fencepost after losing control of his motorcycle or boat.
Depending on which version you receive, the caption accompanying this emailed photo claims this poor patient was impaled on a fencepost after losing control of his motorcycle or boat.
World Record Grizzly Bear
These pictures are of a guy who works for the forest service in Alaska. He was out deer hunting. A large world record Griz charged him from about 50 yards away.
These pictures are of a guy who works for the forest service in Alaska. He was out deer hunting. A large world record Griz charged him from about 50 yards away.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite 6
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
412-Pound Deer
Emailed photo allegedly shows a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania - or in Nebraska, depending on version
Emailed photo allegedly shows a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania - or in Nebraska, depending on version
Crocodile Eats Golfer
The impatient golfer was never located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, 'Ole Mose' was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
The impatient golfer was never located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, 'Ole Mose' was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #11
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Sneaky Shark
His parents, posing in their scuba gear for an underwater picture, couldn't understand why he suddenly panicked and swam frantically to the suface ... but not before taking the vacation snapshot of a lifetime.
His parents, posing in their scuba gear for an underwater picture, couldn't understand why he suddenly panicked and swam frantically to the suface ... but not before taking the vacation snapshot of a lifetime.
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...
The Lion Cut
This image captures the expression of 'one seriously pissed off cat' after its groomer misunderstood the owner's instructions and gave the poor beast a 'lion cut' instead of a 'line cut.'
This image captures the expression of 'one seriously pissed off cat' after its groomer misunderstood the owner's instructions and gave the poor beast a 'lion cut' instead of a 'line cut.'
Wal-Mart Cash Back Scam - Urban Legends
Email rumors claim cashiers at Wal-Mart and other retail stores routinely steal money from customers by surreptitiously triggering the 'cash back' option during credit or debit card transactions.
Email rumors claim cashiers at Wal-Mart and other retail stores routinely steal money from customers by surreptitiously triggering the 'cash back' option during credit or debit card transactions.
Don't Answer Cell Phone While It's Charging! - Urban Legends
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
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!
Flight 297 Atlanta to Houston
Forwarded email 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.
Forwarded email 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.
Gary Hogan / Cindy Hogan Prayer Request - Netlore Archive
Email prayer request from 'Gary Hogan' on behalf of his wife, 'Cindy Hogan,' who has cervical cancer, is a corrupted version of an authentic but outdated message
Email prayer request from 'Gary Hogan' on behalf of his wife, 'Cindy Hogan,' who has cervical cancer, is a corrupted version of an authentic but outdated message
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #12 - Analysis
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Obama Not a U.S. Citizen?
Obama citizenship questioned: Email rumor claims Barack Obama is ineligible for the presidency because by virtue of certain laws in effect at the time of his birth he is not a natural-born citizen of the United States.http://urbanlegendsadmin.about.com/cgi/acme/article/article.cgi?ops=-R01-----9x2-9yN&sel=-9yN&tzn=8
Obama citizenship questioned: Email rumor claims Barack Obama is ineligible for the presidency because by virtue of certain laws in effect at the time of his birth he is not a natural-born citizen of the United States.http://urbanlegendsadmin.about.com/cgi/acme/article/article.cgi?ops=-R01-----9x2-9yN&sel=-9yN&tzn=8
Barack Obama Antichrist
Email rumor claims charismatic U.S. presidential candidate Barack Obama is the Antichrist prophesied in the New Testament.
Email rumor claims charismatic U.S. presidential candidate Barack Obama is the Antichrist prophesied in the New Testament.
A Snake, Fishing
Emailed image shows a very large snake - evidently a python - pulling its prey - evidently a wallaby, though some have labeled it a 'cow' - out of a body of water in Western Australia.
Emailed image shows a very large snake - evidently a python - pulling its prey - evidently a wallaby, though some have labeled it a 'cow' - out of a body of water in Western Australia.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Beer Can Townhouse (#2)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Quiz: Historical Hoaxes and Fallacies
Quiz: Test your knowledge of historical hoaxes and misconceptions!
Quiz: Test your knowledge of historical hoaxes and misconceptions!
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #2
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Petition 2493 (Pastor Removal from Television) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, new variants of a decades-old petition expressing outrage over the alleged attempt by atheists to force a ban on religious broadcasting in the United States.
Circulating via email, new variants of a decades-old petition expressing outrage over the alleged attempt by atheists to force a ban on religious broadcasting in the United States.
A Bristol Zoo Urban Myth
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 disappeared with all the cash. Turns out no one had ever officially hired a car park attendant for the zoo. 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 disappeared with all the cash. Turns out no one had ever officially hired a car park attendant for the zoo. The man now lives in a villa in Spain.
Satellite Photos of Columbia Space Shuttle Explosion - Urban Legends
Are dramatic photographs allegedly taken by an Israeli satellite of the Columbia Space Shuttle explosion real?
Are dramatic photographs allegedly taken by an Israeli satellite of the Columbia Space Shuttle explosion real?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 'Bill Sux' Etched on Pentium Chip
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #6
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms 2
A set of photos showing 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).
A set of photos showing 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).
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #3
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Shark Attacks Helicopter
Is that a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from that helicopter rescue ladder?
Is that a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from that helicopter rescue ladder?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Another Giant Cat
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Ed Freeman
Emailed tribute to Vietnam War hero and Medal of Honor recipient Ed Freeman, who died at the age of 80 in Boise, Idaho on August 20, 2008.
Emailed tribute to Vietnam War hero and Medal of Honor recipient Ed Freeman, who died at the age of 80 in Boise, Idaho on August 20, 2008.
Tow Truck Comedy of Errors #5
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Photo vignette circulating via email shows a tow truck tumbling into the sea while attempting to salvage another tow truck that had already met the same fate while salvaging a wrecked car.
Monster Crocodile
Emailed photo of a gigantic crocodile fished from the sea in the port of Pointe-Noire, Republic of the Congo.
Emailed photo of a gigantic crocodile fished from the sea in the port of Pointe-Noire, Republic of the Congo.
John Dillinger's Private Parts
Dear Urban Legends: I believe I read an article by Robert Anton Wilson a ways back regarding the Smithsonian or some D.C. museum housing private parts of famous people - John Dillinger, for example. Is there any truth to this folklore?
Dear Urban Legends: I believe I read an article by Robert Anton Wilson a ways back regarding the Smithsonian or some D.C. museum housing private parts of famous people - John Dillinger, for example. Is there any truth to this folklore?
Giant Catfish
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas.
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas.
fable
Definition of fable - A short allegorical narrative making a moral point, traditionally by means of animal characters who speak and act like human beings.
Definition of fable - A short allegorical narrative making a moral point, traditionally by means of animal characters who speak and act like human beings.
Vicks on Your Feet for Cough?
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying Vicks Vaporub to the bottoms of their feet and covering them with socks at bedtime
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying Vicks Vaporub to the bottoms of their feet and covering them with socks at bedtime
Can People Look Up My Driver's License on the Internet?
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Parrot Flower
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Freaky Fish
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Clement Clarke Moore
Clement Clarke Moore, the presumed author of 'A Visit from St. Nicholas,' never wanted to see the poem published but helped shape an enduring myth of our time.
Clement Clarke Moore, the presumed author of 'A Visit from St. Nicholas,' never wanted to see the poem published but helped shape an enduring myth of our time.
Urban Legends Quiz: Food & Drink Urban Legends
Quiz: Food & drink Urban Legends: urban legends quiz
Quiz: Food & drink Urban Legends: urban legends quiz
Brown Recluse Spider Bite 5
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.