Urban Legends: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Urban Legends Photo Quiz: Spot the Fakes!
quiz spot photo quiz urban legends: Real or Fake? The Urban Legends Photo Quiz
quiz spot photo quiz urban legends: Real or Fake? The Urban Legends Photo Quiz
POSTCARD or POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK 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'
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
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
Test Your Urban Legends IQ
urban legends iq: Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!
urban legends iq: Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!
Burundanga Drug Warning
Forwarded emails warn that criminals in the U.S. 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. are using business cards impregnated with a potent street drug called burundanga (aka scopolamine) to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Current Hoaxes / Netlore
From About.com: Current Internet hoaxes, email rumors and urban legends debunked - your resource for information on all the latest misinformation on the Net
From About.com: Current Internet hoaxes, email rumors and urban legends debunked - your resource for information on all the latest misinformation on the Net
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
New Urban Legends
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Top 25 Urban Legends
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
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
Petition Number 2493 (Religious Broadcasting) - Urban Legends
New email variants of decades-old petition expressing outrage over alleged attempt by atheists to force a government ban on religious broadcasting in the United States
New email variants of decades-old petition expressing outrage over alleged attempt by atheists to force a government ban on religious broadcasting in the United States
Cell Phone 'Do Not Call' List?
Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to call 888-382-1222 to enter their numbers on a federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to call 888-382-1222 to enter their numbers on a federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
FW: Don't Feed Your Cat Table Scraps - Urban Legends
guinness world record guinness world record holder cat lore quiz image table scraps: Emailed photo of a really, really big housecat
guinness world record guinness world record holder cat lore quiz image table scraps: Emailed photo of a really, really big housecat
Obama Not a U.S. Citizen?
Obama citizenship: Email rumor claims that Barack Obama is ineligible to become president because according to the laws in effect at the time of his birth he is not a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
Obama citizenship: Email rumor claims that Barack Obama is ineligible to become president because according to the laws in effect at the time of his birth he is not a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
Maggots in Oreos?
Emailed photos purport to show an infestation of maggots or insect eggs in the cream filling of a Chinese-made Oreo cookie.
Emailed photos purport to show an infestation of maggots or insect eggs in the cream filling of a Chinese-made Oreo cookie.
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.
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.
Jamie Lee Curtis
Longstanding (and unproven) rumors claim actress Jamie Lee Curtis is a hermaphrodite or was born intersex and underwent surgery to become a woman
Longstanding (and unproven) rumors claim actress Jamie Lee Curtis is a hermaphrodite or was born intersex and underwent surgery to become a woman
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 the Liger (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
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
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.
Xmas Cards for Soldiers
Email flier says Christmas cards can be sent to wounded servicemen and women at Walter Reed Army Medical Center by addressing them to 'A Recovering American Soldier.'
Email flier says Christmas cards can be sent to wounded servicemen and women at Walter Reed Army Medical Center by addressing them to 'A Recovering American Soldier.'
Bill Gates Is Sharing His Fortune! - Netlore Archive
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his fortune with people who forward silly chain letters
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his fortune with people who forward silly chain letters
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)?
Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) Recall - Netlore Archive
Forwarded emails warning that non-prescription medicines containing phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride may have adverse health effects were accurate at the time they were issued but are now outdated
Forwarded emails warning that non-prescription medicines containing phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride may have adverse health effects were accurate at the time they were issued but are now outdated
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.
ABC Bans Flag Lapel Pins?
Forwarded email claims ABC News has issued orders forbidding reporters to wear American flag lapel pins or other patriotic insignia.
Forwarded email claims ABC News has issued orders forbidding reporters to wear American flag lapel pins or other patriotic insignia.
'Twas the Spoof Before Xmas
Apocryphal versions of 'The Night Before Christmas,' one of the most parodied poems in the English language.
Apocryphal versions of 'The Night Before Christmas,' one of the most parodied poems in the English language.
Camel Spider (Photo) - Urban Legends
Attack of the Camel Spider! Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders.
Attack of the Camel Spider! Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers stationed in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders.
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?'
World Record Grizzly Bear (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
Why the Ocean Is So Salty - Netlore Archive
Is it true that a blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates, and that explains the saltiness of the ocean?
Is it true that a blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates, and that explains the saltiness of the ocean?
Do They Eat Babies in China?
Do they eat babies in China? Photos circulating on the Internet purport to show a Chinese man cooking and eating a human baby or fetus. Are they real?
Do they eat babies in China? Photos circulating on the Internet purport to show a Chinese man cooking and eating a human baby or fetus. Are they real?
Ciara's Secret Sex Change
Internet rumors are flying to the effect that hip-hop/R&B star Ciara was born a man and is either a 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 a man and is either a transvestite or underwent a sex-change operation to become a transsexual
Obama's Act of Kindness
TRUE: Forwarded email relates a story published in a Norwegian newspaper about Mary Andersen, who was stranded without money in the Miami airport one day in 1988 and unable to pay a $103 luggage surcharge. A tall, well-dressed stranger came to her rescue and paid the fee. His name: Barack Obama.
TRUE: Forwarded email relates a story published in a Norwegian newspaper about Mary Andersen, who was stranded without money in the Miami airport one day in 1988 and unable to pay a $103 luggage surcharge. A tall, well-dressed stranger came to her rescue and paid the fee. His name: Barack Obama.
Giant Texas Rattlesnake - Netlore Archive
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
Brown Recluse Spider Bite (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
World's Tallest Woman - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds
Emailed photos purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds
Test Your Urban Legends IQ - Advanced Level
urban legends level test iq: Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!
urban legends level test iq: Urban Legends Quiz: Test your urban legends IQ!
Ashley Flores, Missing Person - Urban Legends
Ashley Flores hoax: Email flier seeks help locating Ashley Flores, a 13-year-old girl allegedly missing in Philadelphia
Ashley Flores hoax: Email flier seeks help locating Ashley Flores, a 13-year-old girl allegedly missing in Philadelphia
Boycott Muslim 'Christmas Stamp' - Netlore Archive
Email urges boycott of a 'Christmas stamp' for Muslims - in reality a U.S. postage stamp commemorating the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
Email urges boycott of a 'Christmas stamp' for Muslims - in reality a U.S. postage stamp commemorating the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
Shark Attacks Helicopter! - Netlore Archive
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
Pit Bull vs. Porcupine (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
Was a Giant Human Skeleton Found in Saudi Arabia Desert? - Netlore Archive
'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'
Petition to Deny Social Security Benefits to Illegal Immigrants - Netlore Archive
Email petition addressed to President Bush advocates a citizenship requirement for immigrants receiving Social Security and other government services
Email petition addressed to President Bush advocates a citizenship requirement for immigrants receiving Social Security and other government services
Giant Catfish Caught in Lake Texoma (2004) - Netlore Archive
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas
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 cannot 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 cannot be trusted to provide reliable information.
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms - Netlore Archive
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)
You've Received a Postcard (Trojan / Virus) - Netlore Archive
Real virus: Messages with subject headers such as 'You've received a postcard from a school-mate!' or 'You have recieved 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 recieved a Hallmark E-Card,' etc. may contain links to malicious Web pages
School Science Fair Name-Gathering Project - Netlore Archive
Email chain letter soliciting the first names of recipients purports to be a school science fair project, but it's not
Email chain letter soliciting the first names of recipients purports to be a school science fair project, but it's not
New Dollar Coin Omits 'In God We Trust' - Netlore Archive
Email rumor claims the motto 'In God We Trust' was omitted from the new one-dollar U.S. coin issued in February 2007
Email rumor claims the motto 'In God We Trust' was omitted from the new one-dollar U.S. coin issued in February 2007
90# Telephone Scam - Netlore Archive
The 90# Telephone Scam - Patrick Crispen of The Internet Tourbus weighs in on a PARTLY true Net rumor
The 90# Telephone Scam - Patrick Crispen of The Internet Tourbus weighs in on a PARTLY true Net rumor
Animal-Human Hybrid (Photo) - Netlore Archive
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
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
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
*77 or #77 Cell Phone Feature - Netlore Archive
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
David Letterman Email Hoax
Article attributed to late-night talk show host David Letterman labels the majority of Americans "ungrateful, spoiled brats" for saying they're unhappy with the current direction of the country.
Article attributed to late-night talk show host David Letterman labels the majority of Americans "ungrateful, spoiled brats" for saying they're unhappy with the current direction of the country.
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.
The Man-Eating Catfish
Internet photos purport to show a giant, man-eating catfish caught in the Furong Reservoir in Huadu, China.
Internet photos purport to show a giant, man-eating catfish caught in the Furong Reservoir in Huadu, China.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms (#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
Can Thieves Steal Key Codes?
Forwarded email urges vehicle owners to lock doors manually instead of using a remote key, otherwise thieves might be able to clone the security code and gain entry to the vehicle.
Forwarded email urges vehicle owners to lock doors manually instead of using a remote key, otherwise thieves might be able to clone the security code and gain entry to the vehicle.
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
Origin of the F-Word - Netlore Archive
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)
The Christmas House (Video) - Netlore Archive
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
Ben Stein: Christmas Confessions - Netlore Archive
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author and game show host Ben Stein
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author and game show host Ben Stein
Pregnant Man - The World's First Human Male Pregnancy
A pregnant man? It's funny, yes, and even sounds convincing to some. But is it art?
A pregnant man? It's funny, yes, and even sounds convincing to some. But is it art?
Bottled Water Safety Alert
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.
Forwarded email warns women not to drink bottled water that has been left in a car because the heat supposedly releases cancer-causing toxins which 'leak' from the plastic into the water.
The 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?
Baby Carrots and Chlorine
Email flier warns consumers that baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
Email flier warns consumers that baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
The 9-11 Tourist Guy (Accidental Tourist) - Netlore Archive
The Tourist Guy, aka The Accidental Tourist - 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 The Accidental Tourist - A snapshot purportedly taken atop one of the World Trade Center twin towers seconds before the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001.
Christmas Folklore Quiz
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: Quiz: Christmas traditions, history and folklore
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).
Amy Bruce Chain Letter - Netlore Archive
The sad, untrue story of 7-year-old lung cancer victim Amy Bruce - another 'dying child' who doesn't really exist
The sad, untrue story of 7-year-old lung cancer victim Amy Bruce - another 'dying child' who doesn't really exist
Card Trick: I Can Read Your Mind!
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...
Can coughing save your life during a heart attack? - Self-CPR - Netlore Archive
Self-CPR? According to this 1999 email rumor, you can save your own life during a heart attack ... by coughing
Self-CPR? According to this 1999 email rumor, you can save your own life during a heart attack ... by coughing
Urban Legends Sex Quiz
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
A Tootsie Pop Mystery
Where did the rumor come from that you could get a free Tootsie Roll Pop if you found a star (or an Indian) on your wrapper?
Where did the rumor come from that you could get a free Tootsie Roll Pop if you found a star (or an Indian) on your wrapper?
PIN Number Reversal - Use Reverse PIN to Contact Police in ATM Emergency? - Netlore Archive
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of an attempted robbery by entering their PIN in reverse
Email rumor claims ATM users can contact police in the event of an attempted robbery by entering their PIN in reverse
Dead Mermaid Found in the Philippines - Netlore Archive
Emailed photos purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines
Emailed photos purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines
Strawberry Quick Meth Warning - Urban Legends
Forwarded emails warn of a new, candy-flavored form of methamphetamine targeted at young people called 'strawberry meth' or 'Strawberry Quick'
Forwarded emails warn of a new, candy-flavored form of methamphetamine targeted at young people called 'strawberry meth' or 'Strawberry Quick'
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.'
Bankruptcies and Gift Cards
Email flier lists several companies that have supposedly filed for bankruptcy, warning that gift cards from these businesses won't be valid for much longer
Email flier lists several companies that have supposedly filed for bankruptcy, warning that gift cards from these businesses won't be valid for much longer
Leno on Spoiled Americans?
Article attributed to Tonight Show host Jay Leno labels the majority of Americans 'ungrateful, spoiled brats' for saying they're unhappy with the current direction of the country.
Article attributed to Tonight Show host Jay Leno labels the majority of Americans 'ungrateful, spoiled brats' for saying they're unhappy with the current direction of the country.
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
Dead Mermaid Found After Tsunami - Netlore Archive
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
Microwave Ovens, Plastic Wrap and Dioxin - Netlore Archive
Does microwaving foods in plastic containers or covered with plastic wrap expose consumers to deadly cancer-causing dioxins?
Does microwaving foods in plastic containers or covered with plastic wrap expose consumers to deadly cancer-causing dioxins?
Does Freezing / Microwaving Plastic Containers Release Dioxin? - Netlore Archive
Email flier purporting to relay information from a Johns Hopkins newsletter claims that freezing water in plastic bottles and microwaving foods in plastic wrap releases toxic dioxin and may cause cancer
Email flier purporting to relay information from a Johns Hopkins newsletter claims that freezing water in plastic bottles and microwaving foods in plastic wrap releases toxic dioxin and may cause cancer
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
'Amazing' Satellite Photos of Columbia Space Shuttle Explosion - Netlore Archive
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?
Polar Bear Attack (Photos) - Netlore Archive
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack
Emailed photos graphically document injuries sustained by the survivor of a polar bear attack
'Mail Server Report' Virus
TRUE: A potentially destructive Internet virus (or 'worm') is propagating via emails sporting the header 'Mail Server Report.' However, a newer version of the warning circulating since March 2008 contains erroneous information.
TRUE: A potentially destructive Internet virus (or 'worm') is propagating via emails sporting the header 'Mail Server Report.' However, a newer version of the warning circulating since March 2008 contains erroneous information.
Doctors Find Live Worm in Patient's Eye - Netlore Archive
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...
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).
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.
World's Highest Bridge - Urban Legends
Emailed photo of the world's highest bridge, the Millau Viaduct in southern France
Emailed photo of the world's highest bridge, the Millau Viaduct in southern France
New Carjacking Scheme? - Netlore Archive
Email flier warns of a 'new carjacking scheme' involving the placement of an advertisement or other piece of paper on the victim's rear window to trick them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running
Email flier warns of a 'new carjacking scheme' involving the placement of an advertisement or other piece of paper on the victim's rear window to trick them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running
Top 10 Grossest Urban Legends
Here is a handpicked collection of our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (heh!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
Here is a handpicked collection of our very favorite, absolutely 100% true (heh!) tales of revolting food contaminations, creepy-crawly insect infestations, sexually-transmitted horrors, and all-around nauseating human behavior. Each and every story is guaranteed to disgust. Enjoy!
John Cleese Letter to America (Notice of Revocation of Independence)
December 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese
December 2004 variant of 'Notice of Revocation of Independence' purportedly authored by John Cleese
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
412-Pound Deer Killed (Photos) - Netlore Archive
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska)
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska)
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.
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.
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.
Polar Bear and Huskies at Play
Emailed images show a 1,200-pound polar bear playing with husky sled dogs in the sub-arctic wilderness of northern Canada.
Emailed images show a 1,200-pound polar bear playing with husky sled dogs in the sub-arctic wilderness of northern Canada.
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Hercules the Liger
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
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?
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...
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...
Fw: New Summer Trends (Photos) - Netlore Archive
Emailed photos purportedly depicting 'new summer trends' show women with symmetrical rows of skin-piercings on their torsos laced up like old-fashioned corsets
Emailed photos purportedly depicting 'new summer trends' show women with symmetrical rows of skin-piercings on their torsos laced up like old-fashioned corsets
Is Steve Burns Really Dead?
Did Steve Burns die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false once again...
Did Steve Burns die of a drug overdose? Nope, he's alive and well. Internet rumors prove false once again...
Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
urban legends iq quiz celebrity: Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
urban legends iq quiz celebrity: Quiz: Celebrity Urban Legends
Sears Maintains Benefits for Military Reservists - Netlore Archive
TRUE: Sears, Roebuck & Co. maintains full job benefits and partial pay for military reservists called up to fight in the Iraq war
TRUE: Sears, Roebuck & Co. maintains full job benefits and partial pay for military reservists called up to fight in the Iraq war
Jelly Bracelets - An Invitation to Sex? - Netlore Archive
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
Black and White Twins (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - World's Tallest Woman (#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
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.
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
UK Bans Holocaust Teaching?
Email chain letter urges remembrance of the Holocaust, claiming the U.K. has removed all mention of the event from its school curriculum for fear of offending Muslims
Email chain letter urges remembrance of the Holocaust, claiming the U.K. has removed all mention of the event from its school curriculum for fear of offending Muslims
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
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.
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.
Crocodile Eats Golfer (Photo) - Netlore Archive
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...
809 Area Code Scam - Netlore Archive
809 area code scam - email alerts circulating since 1996 warn consumers not to comply with telephone, pager, or email requests to dial phone numbers beginning with the area code 809, 284, or 876
809 area code scam - email alerts circulating since 1996 warn consumers not to comply with telephone, pager, or email requests to dial phone numbers beginning with the area code 809, 284, or 876
Herman the Giant Bunny Rabbit - Netlore Archive
Emailed image of a very large 'German Giant' rabbit named Herman, in the arms of his owner, Hans Wagner
Emailed image of a very large 'German Giant' rabbit named Herman, in the arms of his owner, Hans Wagner
IQ and Voter Preference in 2004 Presidential Election - Urban Legends
Forwarded email purports to correlate the results of the 2004 U.S. presidential election with the average IQ of voters in each state.
Forwarded email purports to correlate the results of the 2004 U.S. presidential election with the average IQ of voters in each state.
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
Obama on the Phone (Photo) - Netlore Archive
Emailed photo shows presidential candidate Barack Obama speaking on the phone while apparently holding the receiver upside-down
Emailed photo shows presidential candidate Barack Obama speaking on the phone while apparently holding the receiver upside-down
Polar Bear & Huskies #4
Emailed images show a 1,200-pound polar bear playing with husky sled dogs in the sub-arctic wilderness of northern Canada.
Emailed images show a 1,200-pound polar bear playing with husky sled dogs in the sub-arctic wilderness of northern Canada.
Missing Child: Reachelle Marie Smith - Netlore Archive
TRUE: Via forwarded email, details of the case of 3-year-old Reachelle Marie Smith, who was reported missing in Minot, North Dakota as of May 2006
TRUE: Via forwarded email, details of the case of 3-year-old Reachelle Marie Smith, who was reported missing in Minot, North Dakota as of May 2006
Snowball, the Giant Mutant Cat of Ontario - Netlore Archive
Circulating via email, a photograph of a giant mutant cat named Snowball in the arms of his owner, Roger Degagne
Circulating via email, a photograph of a giant mutant cat named Snowball in the arms of his owner, Roger Degagne
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...
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.
Lead in Lipstick Causes Cancer? - Netlore Archive
Email hoax claims that consumers can test for 'cancer-causing' lead in lipsticks by scratching the products with a 24K gold ring
Email hoax claims that consumers can test for 'cancer-causing' lead in lipsticks by scratching the products with a 24K gold ring
Tiger Adopts Piglets (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
Ghost of the Sundarbans / Fort Mountain Ghost - Netlore Archive
Emailed photo allegedly depicts a ghostly figure standing beside a tourist in the Sundarbans (southwest Bangladesh) two days before he mysteriously died of a heart attack; in a more recent version, the location is supposedly Fort Mountain, Georgia
Emailed photo allegedly depicts a ghostly figure standing beside a tourist in the Sundarbans (southwest Bangladesh) two days before he mysteriously died of a heart attack; in a more recent version, the location is supposedly Fort Mountain, Georgia
Origin of the S-Word: 'Ship High in Transit' - Netlore Archive
In which we are told, with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a nautical phrase
In which we are told, with a straight face, that the word 'shit' originated as the acronym of 'Ship High in Transit,' a nautical phrase
Current Netlore - Internet hoaxes, rumors, etc. - A to Z Index, cont.
anthropologist susan mckinley internet hoaxes rumors actor lee marvin 24k gold ring flotsam and jetsam: A-Z listing of current Netlore, p. 4
anthropologist susan mckinley internet hoaxes rumors actor lee marvin 24k gold ring flotsam and jetsam: A-Z listing of current Netlore, p. 4
Puppy with a Heart (Photos) - Netlore Archive
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
MONDEX: The Mark of the Beast - Netlore Archive
Emailed slide show claims that microchips used in Mondex 'smart cards' are being implanted in people's hands or foreheads and constitute the 'mark of the beast' prophesied in the Biblical Book of Revelation
Emailed slide show claims that microchips used in Mondex 'smart cards' are being implanted in people's hands or foreheads and constitute the 'mark of the beast' prophesied in the Biblical Book of Revelation
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Cell Phone Popcorn Video
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
Spot an Email Hoax
A simple how-to on recognizing email hoaxes
A simple how-to on recognizing email hoaxes
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.
Sick, Dying & Missing Kids - Email Alerts, Chain Letters & Hoaxes
Outdated and outright phony chain letters, with rare exceptions
Outdated and outright phony chain letters, with rare exceptions
Deer on a Pole
This emailed photo allegedly documents the discovery of a dead deer high atop a power pole in a remote area of Baltimore - or Winnipeg, Manitoba, depending on version.
This emailed photo allegedly documents the discovery of a dead deer high atop a power pole in a remote area of Baltimore - or Winnipeg, Manitoba, depending on version.
John Dillinger's Private Parts
Dear Guide: 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 Guide: 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 Gator
Emailed image of a large alligator allegedly shot in Texas or Florida (depending on version) by a game warden named Joe Goff.
Emailed image of a large alligator allegedly shot in Texas or Florida (depending on version) by a game warden named Joe Goff.