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!
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.
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.
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 10 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
Gather 'round the digital campfire to enjoy the top 10 scariest urban legends we know. Scary stories galore!
The Legend of Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary: Legend has it that if you stand in front of a mirror in a darkened room and chant 'Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary,' a terrifying ghost will appear.
Bloody Mary: Legend has it that if you stand in front of a mirror in a darkened room and chant 'Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary,' a terrifying ghost will appear.
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
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.
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.
Pictures of a Dead Mermaid
Emailed pictures allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach near Chennai, India during the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Emailed pictures allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach near Chennai, India during the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
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
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!
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
Humans Can Lick, Too
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' Here's a popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter.
AKA 'The Licked Hand.' Here's a popular tale from the oral tradition recast as a spooky - if scarcely believable - email chain letter.
The Babysitter & the Man Upstairs
A teenage babysitter frantically calls the police after receiving prank calls from a stranger who repeatedly inquires after the welfare of the children she's supposed to be taking care of.
A teenage babysitter frantically calls the police after receiving prank calls from a stranger who repeatedly inquires after the welfare of the children she's supposed to be taking care of.
Mr. Rogers a Sniper?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained, tattoo-wearing sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine Corps sniper (or Navy SEAL)?
Was Fred Rogers, longtime host of the children's TV show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, a trained, tattoo-wearing sharpshooter with dozens of kills to his credit as a Marine Corps sniper (or Navy SEAL)?
Richard Gere & the Gerbil
Several years ago, 'they' say, actor Richard Gere was admitted into the emergency room of a Los Angeles hospital with a foreign object lodged in a bodily orifice.
Several years ago, 'they' say, actor Richard Gere was admitted into the emergency room of a Los Angeles hospital with a foreign object lodged in a bodily orifice.
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.
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 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.
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!
1% Transaction Tax
H.R. 4646: Forwarded email claims President Obama's finance team is planning to impose a 1% transaction tax on bank deposits and all other transactions at financial institutions.
H.R. 4646: Forwarded email claims President Obama's finance team is planning to impose a 1% transaction tax on bank deposits and all other transactions at financial institutions.
Do Earwigs Crawl in People's Ears and Bore into Their Brains? - Urban Legends
Myth Busted: Earwigs are so named because they crawl into sleeping people's ears and eat their brains.
Myth Busted: Earwigs are so named because they crawl into sleeping people's ears and eat their brains.
Cell Phone Numbers Go Public?
Viral messages warn that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urge users to dial 888-382-1222 to list mobile numbers with the federal Do Not Call Registry to prevent telemarketing calls.
Viral messages warn that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urge users to dial 888-382-1222 to list mobile numbers with the federal Do Not Call Registry to prevent telemarketing calls.
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.
Camel Spiders (Photo)
Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true the venom of a camel spider is deadly to human beings?
Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true the venom of a camel spider is deadly to human beings?
PIN Number Reversal - Use Reverse PIN to Contact Police? - Urban Legends
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of attempted robberies by entering their PIN in reverse.
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of attempted robberies by entering their PIN in reverse.
Shark Attacks Helicopter! - Urban Legends
Viral image purports to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
Viral image purports to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
Why Is the Ocean Salty? Whale Sperm! - Urban Legends
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
Einstein Proved God Exists?
Einstein's proof of God? In this viral anecdote of unknown origin, a university student named Albert Einstein humiliates his atheist professor by proving that God exists.
Einstein's proof of God? In this viral anecdote of unknown origin, a university student named Albert Einstein humiliates his atheist professor by proving that God exists.
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...
Campfire Tales
The Hook-Man - An urban legend
The Hook-Man - An urban legend
Tiger Adopts Piglets (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed snapshots taken at a zoo show a mother tiger apparently nursing a brood of piglets costumed in tiger skins.
Emailed snapshots taken at a zoo show a mother tiger apparently nursing a brood of piglets costumed in tiger skins.
Obama's Veterans Day Non-Salute (Photo) - Urban Legends
Emailed picture supposedly shows President Obama neglecting to salute the flag (or national anthem) at the 2009 Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington Cemetery (or, in another version, Ft. Hood).
Emailed picture supposedly shows President Obama neglecting to salute the flag (or national anthem) at the 2009 Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington Cemetery (or, in another version, Ft. Hood).
The Eye of God
NASA photo of the Helix Nebula taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders.
NASA photo of the Helix Nebula taken by the Hubble Space Telescope has been labeled the 'Eye of God' by frequent forwarders.
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...
Obama Citizenship Hoax
Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court - Purported AP news story claims Occidental College transcripts reveal that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship only awarded to foreign-born students.
Very Quietly Obama's Citizenship Case Reaches the Supreme Court - Purported AP news story claims Occidental College transcripts reveal that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship only awarded to foreign-born students.
The 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!
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.
Giant Skeletons Found in Middle East? - Urban Legends
Giant Skeletons? Forwarded email claims recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of 'a human of phenomenal size.'
Giant Skeletons? Forwarded email claims recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of 'a human of phenomenal size.'
Burundanga Drug Warning
Forwarded emails warn of criminals using business cards impregnated with a drug called burundanga to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Forwarded emails warn of criminals using business cards impregnated with a drug called burundanga to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
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.
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.
'Gay Jesus' Movie?
'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.
Difference Between Obama & Romney
Juxtaposed news photos purport to contrast the attitudes of President Barack Obama, fist-bumping 'man of the people,' and Mitt Romney, a 'man of wealth and privilege' having his shoes shined on an airport tarmac.
Juxtaposed news photos purport to contrast the attitudes of President Barack Obama, fist-bumping 'man of the people,' and Mitt Romney, a 'man of wealth and privilege' having his shoes shined on an airport tarmac.
Secret Cell Phone Tips?
Forwarded email purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use, including dialing 112 to access a worldwide emergency network.
Forwarded email purports to clue readers in on various 'unknown' tips and tricks for cell phone use, including dialing 112 to access a worldwide emergency network.
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.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite
Emailed images purport to show the progressive deterioration of a necrotic wound caused by the bite of a poisonous brown recluse spider.
Emailed images purport to show the progressive deterioration of a necrotic wound caused by the bite of a poisonous brown recluse spider.
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.
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.
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.
'Bottle Bombs' Warning
'Bottle Bomb' warning: Forwarded email warns recipients to beware of 'bottle bombs,' homemade explosive devices consisting of water, Drano, and aluminum foil in a plastic bottle.
'Bottle Bomb' warning: Forwarded email warns recipients to beware of 'bottle bombs,' homemade explosive devices consisting of water, Drano, and aluminum foil in a plastic bottle.
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.
Vicks on Your Feet for Cough?
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying 'Vicks Vapor Rub' to the bottoms of their feet at bedtime.
Forwarded email claims that coughing in children can be stopped '100% of the time' by applying 'Vicks Vapor Rub' to the bottoms of their feet at bedtime.
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...
Human-Dog Hybrid (Photo) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-dog, half-human creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-dog, half-human creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Giants in Greece (Photos)
Hoax images purport to show skeletons of giant human beings (Nephilim or Canaanites) allegedly found in an archaeological dig in Greece.
Hoax images purport to show skeletons of giant human beings (Nephilim or Canaanites) allegedly found in an archaeological dig in Greece.
Texas Rattlesnake
Next time you're out in the tall grass, remember this one. This snake was recently found at the J & S Quik Mart located just south of RR 3014 Turnoff on Highway 281 south of Tow, Texas.
Next time you're out in the tall grass, remember this one. This snake was recently found at the J & S Quik Mart located just south of RR 3014 Turnoff on Highway 281 south of Tow, Texas.
Good Luck, Mr. Gorsky! - Urban Legends
'Good luck, Mr. Gorsky!' - An apocryphal footnote to the history of Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 lunar landing and moonwalk.
'Good luck, Mr. Gorsky!' - An apocryphal footnote to the history of Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 lunar landing and moonwalk.
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'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.
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?
'Invitation Facebook' Virus
Forwarded alerts warn users not to open messages with an attachment called 'Invitation FACEBOOK' which supposedly contains a virus that burns your hard drive with an Olympic torch.
Forwarded alerts warn users not to open messages with an attachment called 'Invitation FACEBOOK' which supposedly contains a virus that burns your hard drive with an Olympic torch.
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.
Who Killed Princess Diana?
Ten years on, conspiracy theories surrounding the death of Princess Diana have finally been laid to rest... or have they?
Ten years on, conspiracy theories surrounding the death of Princess Diana have finally been laid to rest... or have they?
Obama Explains Flag Salute
Circulating via email, a statement purportedly made on Meet the Press by Barack Obama explaining why he doesn't wear a flag pin on his lapel or salute the flag during the national anthem.
Circulating via email, a statement purportedly made on Meet the Press by Barack Obama explaining why he doesn't wear a flag pin on his lapel or salute the flag during the national anthem.
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, in Holland. 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, in Holland. Is she really the tallest woman in the world?
Brain Maggots 2
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Egg Whites as Burn Remedy
Egg whites for burns? Forwarded email touts coating burned skin with raw egg whites as a 'miracle healing' home remedy.
Egg whites for burns? Forwarded email touts coating burned skin with raw egg whites as a 'miracle healing' home remedy.
Super-Skinny Fashion Models
Viral images purport to show grotesquely thin fashion models in runway shows and posing for photographs.
Viral images purport to show grotesquely thin fashion models in runway shows and posing for photographs.
Eminem Dead in Car Crash?
Is Eminem dead? 10-year-old Internet hoax claims famed rap artist Eminem died in a car crash.
Is Eminem dead? 10-year-old Internet hoax claims famed rap artist Eminem died in a car crash.
Flesh-Eating Disease from Unwashed Underwear? - Urban Legends
Viral images allegedly show examples of flesh-eating disease contracted by women who wore new bras and underwear without washing them first.
Viral images allegedly show examples of flesh-eating disease contracted by women who wore new bras and underwear without washing them first.
Satan's Face in the Smoke on 9/11 - Urban Legends
Some television 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 September 11, 2001.
Some television 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 September 11, 2001.
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?
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.
John Cleese Letter to America (Notice of Revocation of Independence) - Urban Legends
Dec. 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese.
Dec. 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese.
Bottled Water Safety Alert
Bottled water cancer danger? Forwarded email warns women not to drink bottled water that has been left in a car because the heat supposedly releases cancer-causing toxins which 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
Bottled water cancer danger? Forwarded email warns women not to drink bottled water that has been left in a car because the heat supposedly releases cancer-causing toxins which 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
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.
Salaries of Charity CEOs Compared - Urban Legends
Forwarded email purports to compare the salaries of top executives of U.S. and Canadian charitable organizations.
Forwarded email purports to compare the salaries of top executives of U.S. and Canadian charitable organizations.
Obama's Air Force One - Urban Legends
Viral rant claims President Obama removed the American flag from Air Force One and replaced it with his own campaign logo and slogan at a cost to taxpayers of $500,000.
Viral rant claims President Obama removed the American flag from Air Force One and replaced it with his own campaign logo and slogan at a cost to taxpayers of $500,000.
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends: urban legends iq quiz celebrity
Obama's Birth Certificate
An examination of rumors alleging that Barack Obama's birth certificate is either a forgery or an invalid 'short-form' computer print-out which fails to establish his status as a U.S. citizen.
An examination of rumors alleging that Barack Obama's birth certificate is either a forgery or an invalid 'short-form' computer print-out which fails to establish his status as a U.S. citizen.
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
Gerber Banana Baby Food Recall?
Facebook rumor claims Nestle is asking purchasers of Gerber Banana Baby Food to return the products because they may contain glass.
Facebook rumor claims Nestle is asking purchasers of Gerber Banana Baby Food to return the products because they may contain glass.
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.
FW: Did You Lose a Cat?
Did you lose a cat? Viral image purports to show a raccoon standing on its hind legs holding a kitten or cat in its paws.
Did you lose a cat? Viral image purports to show a raccoon standing on its hind legs holding a kitten or cat in its paws.
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.
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.
Hoax: Boy Beaten by Stepfather
Viral wall posting claims Facebook will donate 45 cents toward defraying the medical expenses of a 14-year-old boy 'beaten half dead' or 'shot 6 times' by his stepfather, every time the message is shared or reposted.
Viral wall posting claims Facebook will donate 45 cents toward defraying the medical expenses of a 14-year-old boy 'beaten half dead' or 'shot 6 times' by his stepfather, every time the message is shared or reposted.
Can You Unlock Your Car Door with a Cell Phone? - Urban Legends
Locked out of your automobile? According to this forwarded email, you can have someone transmit a signal from your spare remote key via cell phone and unlock your car door in a pinch.
Locked out of your automobile? According to this forwarded email, you can have someone transmit a signal from your spare remote key via cell phone and unlock your car door in a pinch.
JFK: 'I Am a Jelly Donut'
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
Zipper Tongue
Viral image purports to show the latest achievement in body modification: a surgically split tongue with a zipper!
Viral image purports to show the latest achievement in body modification: a surgically split tongue with a zipper!
Obama's Left-Handed Salute
Viral image appears to show Barack and Michelle Obama saluting the flag by placing their left hands (instead of their right) over their hearts.
Viral image appears to show Barack and Michelle Obama saluting the flag by placing their left hands (instead of their right) over their hearts.
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!
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!'
Motorcycle or 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.
Quiz: Sex Urban Legends
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
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.
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms - Urban Legends
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or tapeworms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi).
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or tapeworms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi).
ACLU vs. Military Prayer?
Email chain letter claims the ACLU has filed lawsuits to remove all crosses from military gravesites and prohibit all military personnel from praying. It further states that, 'thanks to the retched [sic] ACLU and our new (Obama) administration,' Navy chaplains can no longer mention Jesus' name in prayer.
Email chain letter claims the ACLU has filed lawsuits to remove all crosses from military gravesites and prohibit all military personnel from praying. It further states that, 'thanks to the retched [sic] ACLU and our new (Obama) administration,' Navy chaplains can no longer mention Jesus' name in prayer.
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!'
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.
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.
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?
Are Leftover Onions Poisonous?
Forwarded email claims that uncooked, leftover onions are 'poisonous' because they're 'a huge magnet for bacteria,' therefore especially prone to spoilage.
Forwarded email claims that uncooked, leftover onions are 'poisonous' because they're 'a huge magnet for bacteria,' therefore especially prone to spoilage.
Super-Skinny Fashion Model 1
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Black and White Twins (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed images show a pair of twin sisters - one black, the other white - born to a British couple who both had mixed-race parents.
Emailed images show a pair of twin sisters - one black, the other white - born to a British couple who both had mixed-race parents.
Is Steve Burns Really Dead?
Did Blue's Clues TV show host Steve Burns really die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false yet again...
Did Blue's Clues TV show host Steve Burns really die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false yet again...
Brain Maggots 1
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Photos show a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or 'worms') as a result of letting an ingrown hair go untreated (or eating sushi, depending on version).
Top 10 Grossest Urban Legends
Our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (not!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, mutilating accidents, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story below is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
Our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (not!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, mutilating accidents, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story below is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
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.
Sir Thomas Crapper
Is it true that a 19th-century British plumber named Sir Thomas Crapper (aka John Crapper) invented the flush toilet?
Is it true that a 19th-century British plumber named Sir Thomas Crapper (aka John Crapper) invented the flush toilet?
Snake Swallows Man 1
Viral images purport to show a gigantic snake — said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor — swallowing a human being whole.
Viral images purport to show a gigantic snake — said to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor — swallowing a human being whole.
Top 10 Funniest Urban Legends
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
Our handpicked selection of the funniest urban legends online.
Breast Infestation 1
This image purports to document the medical case of a female anthropologist who failed to seek treatment for a skin rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast. Not a pretty picture.
This image purports to document the medical case of a female anthropologist who failed to seek treatment for a skin rash and wound up with an infestation of larvae in her breast. Not a pretty picture.
This Is NOT a Python!
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.
Snake Swallows Man 2
Viral images purport to show a gigantic snake - variously alleged to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole.
Viral images purport to show a gigantic snake - variously alleged to be an anaconda, python, or boa constrictor - swallowing a human being whole.
Breast Infestation 2
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.
Work Moose in Harness (Moose Logging) - Urban Legends
Emailed image purportedly shows a full-grown 'work moose' being harnessed to haul wood in a logging operation.
Emailed image purportedly shows a full-grown 'work moose' being harnessed to haul wood in a logging operation.
Super-Skinny Fashion Model 4
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Lemons and Cancer
Forwarded email claims the humble lemon is a 'miraculous product' that kills cancer cells and has been proven '10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy.'
Forwarded email claims the humble lemon is a 'miraculous product' that kills cancer cells and has been proven '10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy.'
Craigslist Gold Digger
Self-described 'spectacularly beautiful' woman posts an online personals ad bluntly stating her wish to pair off with a marriageable 'rich guy' in New York City. Wall Street banker responds, 'Your offer ... is plain and simple a crappy business deal.'
Self-described 'spectacularly beautiful' woman posts an online personals ad bluntly stating her wish to pair off with a marriageable 'rich guy' in New York City. Wall Street banker responds, 'Your offer ... is plain and simple a crappy business deal.'
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.
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.
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 Megan Fox Really a Man?
Is Megan Fox 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. What's the truth?
Is Megan Fox 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. What's the truth?
Super-Skinny Fashion Model 3
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Viral images purport to show extremely emaciated fashion models.
Is Canola Oil Hazardous to Your Health? - Urban Legends
False Internet rumors attack the safety of canola oil.
False Internet rumors attack the safety of canola oil.
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?
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...
Tiger Adopts Piglets
Emailed snapshots taken at a zoo show a mother tiger apparently nursing a brood of piglets costumed in tiger skins.
Emailed snapshots taken at a zoo show a mother tiger apparently nursing a brood of piglets costumed in tiger skins.
Origin of the S-Word: 'Ship High in Transit' - Urban Legends
In which we are told, and with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a supposed nautical phrase.
In which we are told, and with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a supposed nautical phrase.
Polar Bear Attack 1
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Queen and Scottish Soldiers
Emailed image shows Queen Elizabeth of England sitting amidst a group of kilt-wearing Scottish soldiers, one of whom reveals a wee bit too much of his manhood.
Emailed image shows Queen Elizabeth of England sitting amidst a group of kilt-wearing Scottish soldiers, one of whom reveals a wee bit too much of his manhood.
Can People Look Up My Driver's License on the Internet? - Urban Legends
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
Navy Seals Picture
Viral image purports to show a battle-ready team of Navy Seals, fully armed and wearing skull masks.
Viral image purports to show a battle-ready team of Navy Seals, fully armed and wearing skull masks.
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!
'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.'
Polar Bear Attack 2
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Dead Mermaid in the Philippines
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid caught by a fisherman in the Philippines.
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid caught by a fisherman in the Philippines.
Dumb Politician Quotes
Circulating via email, a collection of idiotic comments attributed to well-known U.S. politicians, their spouses, and their aides.
Circulating via email, a collection of idiotic comments attributed to well-known U.S. politicians, their spouses, and their aides.
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!'
Merman / Mermaid Carcass Found on Beach (Photos) - Urban Legends
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.
Dead Wife Coffee Table
According to this forwarded email, Arizona resident Jeff Green preserved the body of his dead wife Lucy in a specially-built glass coffee table, which is on display in his living room.
According to this forwarded email, Arizona resident Jeff Green preserved the body of his dead wife Lucy in a specially-built glass coffee table, which is on display in his living room.
Worm Found in Patient's Eye
When the doctors operated, what was thought to be a growth or cyst actually turned out to be a live worm; what was thought initially to be mere dust in the patient's eye was actually an insect's egg!
When the doctors operated, what was thought to be a growth or cyst actually turned out to be a live worm; what was thought initially to be mere dust in the patient's eye was actually an insect's egg!
Does a Duck's Quack Echo?
Urban legend: A duck's quack doesn't echo. Myth or fact?
Urban legend: A duck's quack doesn't echo. Myth or fact?
Polar Bear Attack 3
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack in the Yukon.
Made in China Bar Codes?
Forwarded email claims potentially hazardous products made in China can be identified by examining the first three digits of the bar code on the packaging, which supposedly indicate the country of origin.
Forwarded email claims potentially hazardous products made in China can be identified by examining the first three digits of the bar code on the packaging, which supposedly indicate the country of origin.
Sneaky Shark (Photo) - Urban Legends
Emailed image shows a massive shark looming behind two blissfully unaware scuba divers vacationing in Australia.
Emailed image shows a massive shark looming behind two blissfully unaware scuba divers vacationing in Australia.
Proposed 28th Amendment
Forwarded email quotes a 'proposed 28th Amendment' to the U.S. Constitution: 'Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives...'
Forwarded email quotes a 'proposed 28th Amendment' to the U.S. Constitution: 'Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives...'
Brown Recluse Spider Bite 1
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.