What to know about the viral ‘Cat in a Hat’ trend sparking US police warnings
- Police in Kentucky and Colorado have launched crackdowns on a viral AI-generated social media trend known as the Cat in the Hat trend due to growing concerns over school safety.
- The trend involves young people using platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat to post AI-generated content depicting the Dr Seuss character appearing to target specific students, homes, or schools.
- In Kentucky, the Allen County-Scottsville Crime Task Force cited a minor who cooperated with law enforcement after sending threatening messages that caused genuine fear among local pupils.
- A 14-year-old high school student in Grand Junction, Colorado, was arrested and charged with harassment and interference with an educational institution after sharing alarming posts linked to the trend.
- Authorities have warned that internet pranks crossing the line into causing fear and disrupting school security will be taken seriously and met with legal consequences.
More bulletins