Urban Legends: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Hoax Photos - 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!
Hoax: Air France Crash Photos - Urban Legends
HOAX: Emailed photos purportedly taken inside the passenger cabin of Air France Flight 447 moments before it broke up over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009 (originally circulated as photos of Gol Airlines Flight 1907 after mid-air collision in 2006).
HOAX: Emailed photos purportedly taken inside the passenger cabin of Air France Flight 447 moments before it broke up over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009 (originally circulated as photos of Gol Airlines Flight 1907 after mid-air collision in 2006).
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
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
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.
'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'
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.
Close Encounter with Mars?
Mars as big as the moon on August 27, 2009? Recycled email hoax claims August 27 will bring the closest encounter between Mars and Earth in recorded history. Unfortunately, this 'once in a lifetime event' already came and went in 2003.
Mars as big as the moon on August 27, 2009? Recycled email hoax claims August 27 will bring the closest encounter between Mars and Earth in recorded history. Unfortunately, this 'once in a lifetime event' already came and went in 2003.
Cell Phone Do Not Call List
Cell phone numbers going public? Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to dial 888-382-1222 and enter their numbers on the federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
Cell phone numbers going public? Forwarded email warns that a directory of cell phone numbers will soon be published and urges users to dial 888-382-1222 and enter their numbers on the federal 'Do Not Call' list to prevent unsolicited telemarketing calls.
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.
SB-2099 - Diabolical Conspiracy to Tax Handguns - Urban Legends
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
FW: Don't Feed Your Cat Table Scraps - Urban Legends
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: guinness world record guinness world record holder cat lore quiz image table scraps
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.
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.
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.
New Urban Legends
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Find info on the latest Internet hoaxes, rumors, and the most popular stories circulating today.
Obama a 'Foreign' Student?
Circulating via email, a purported AP news story claims transcripts released by Occidental College prove that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship awarded to foreign-born students only.
Circulating via email, a purported AP news story claims transcripts released by Occidental College prove that Barack Obama, under the name 'Barry Soetoro,' received a Fulbright Scholarship awarded to foreign-born students only.
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?'
Top 25 Urban Legends
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
Facebook Overpopulated?
Chain letter circulating among Facebook members claims the service is overpopulated and 'becoming very slow,' so members must prove they're still active by forwarding the message to others or their accounts will be deleted.
Chain letter circulating among Facebook members claims the service is overpopulated and 'becoming very slow,' so members must prove they're still active by forwarding the message to others or their accounts will be deleted.
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...
John Dillinger's Private Parts
Dear Urban Legends: I believe I read an article by Robert Anton Wilson a ways back regarding the Smithsonian or some D.C. museum housing private parts of famous people - John Dillinger, for example. Is there any truth to this folklore?
Dear Urban Legends: I believe I read an article by Robert Anton Wilson a ways back regarding the Smithsonian or some D.C. museum housing private parts of famous people - John Dillinger, for example. Is there any truth to this folklore?
July 22 Tsunami Prediction
Forwarded email warns residents of Pacific and Indian Ocean islands to stay away from beaches during the solar eclipse on July 22, 2009 as a 'really bad' earthquake and tsunami are predicted.
Forwarded email warns residents of Pacific and Indian Ocean islands to stay away from beaches during the solar eclipse on July 22, 2009 as a 'really bad' earthquake and tsunami are predicted.
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)?
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
Brown Recluse Spider Bite (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purport to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
Emailed photos purport to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
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
Hercules the Liger (Photos) - Urban Legends
AUTHENTIC: Emailed photos of a 10-foot 'liger' (a cross between a lion and a tiger) named Hercules.
AUTHENTIC: Emailed photos of a 10-foot 'liger' (a cross between a lion and a tiger) named Hercules.
Pepsi Omits 'Under God' in Patriotic Can Promotion - Urban Legends
Baseless email campaign protests the alleged omission of the words 'under God' in an excerpt from the Pledge of Allegiance on new Pepsi cans.
Baseless email campaign protests the alleged omission of the words 'under God' in an excerpt from the Pledge of Allegiance on new Pepsi cans.
Giant Catfish Caught in Lake Texoma (Photo) - Urban Legends
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
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.
THAT'S Why the Ocean Is So Salty! - Urban Legends
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
According to this forwarded email, a typical blue whale produces over 400 gallons of sperm when it ejaculates... and you wonder why the ocean is so salty!
World's Tallest Woman - Urban Legends
Emailed pictures purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds. Is she really the tallest woman in the world?
Emailed pictures purport to show the world's tallest woman at 7 feet, 4 inches tall and 320 pounds. Is she really the tallest woman in the world?
Is Megan Fox Really a Man?
Internet rumors claim voluptuous actress Megan Fox is actually either a man in drag (transvestite), a transsexual ('tranny'), or was born a hermaphrodite and underwent surgery to become a woman.
Internet rumors claim voluptuous actress Megan Fox is actually either a man in drag (transvestite), a transsexual ('tranny'), or was born a hermaphrodite and underwent surgery to become a woman.
Did Nostradamus Predict 9/11?
Internet rumors claim French seer Nostradamus predicted the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon 500 years before they happened.
Internet rumors claim French seer Nostradamus predicted the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon 500 years before they happened.
Giant Texas Rattlesnake - Urban Legends
Emailed picture of a giant rattlesnake killed in Texas, allegedly measuring 9 feet 1 inch in length and weighing 97 pounds.
Emailed picture of a giant rattlesnake killed in Texas, allegedly measuring 9 feet 1 inch in length and weighing 97 pounds.
Ed Freeman
Emailed tribute to Vietnam War hero and Medal of Honor recipient Ed Freeman, who died at the age of 80 in Boise, Idaho on August 20, 2008.
Emailed tribute to Vietnam War hero and Medal of Honor recipient Ed Freeman, who died at the age of 80 in Boise, Idaho on August 20, 2008.
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!
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Another Giant Cat
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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?
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
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.
Burundanga Drug Warning
Forwarded emails warn that criminals in the U.S. and Canada are using business cards impregnated with a potent street drug called burundanga (aka scopolamine) to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
Forwarded emails warn that criminals in the U.S. and Canada are using business cards impregnated with a potent street drug called burundanga (aka scopolamine) to incapacitate victims before attacking them.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Maggot-Stuffed Oreos #1
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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
Camel Spider Picture - Urban Legends
Camel spider picture. Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true their venom is deadly to humans?
Camel spider picture. Emailed photo taken by U.S. soldiers in Iraq shows a pair of huge, scary-looking arachnids known as camel spiders. Is it true their venom is deadly to humans?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Maggot-Stuffed Oreos #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
Was a Giant Human Skeleton Found in Saudi Arabia Desert? - Urban Legends
'Recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of a human of phenomenal size'
'Recent gas exploration activity in the southeast region of the Arabian desert uncovered skeletal remains of a human of phenomenal size'
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Sarah Palin Bikini Pic
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Obama on the Phone
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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
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.
Shark Attacks Helicopter! - Urban Legends
Photo purporting to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
Photo purporting to show a great white shark lunging out of the water to attack a scuba diver dangling from a helicopter ladder.
Petition: No Social Security for Illegal Immigrants - Urban Legends
Social Security changes? Email petition addressed to President Obama (and President Bush before him) advocates a citizenship requirement for anyone receiving Social Security benefits or other government services.
Social Security changes? Email petition addressed to President Obama (and President Bush before him) advocates a citizenship requirement for anyone receiving Social Security benefits or other government services.
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
Brain Maggots / Sushi Worms (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or worms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi)
Emailed photos of a man whose brain allegedly became infested with maggots (or worms) as a result of an ingrown hair (or eating sushi)
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Beer Can Townhouse (#1)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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
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 Urban Legends Slide Show - World's Biggest Dog
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Beer Can Townhouse (#2)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Obama Not a U.S. Citizen?
Obama citizenship questioned: Email rumor claims Barack Obama is ineligible to become president because he is not a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
Obama citizenship questioned: Email rumor claims Barack Obama is ineligible to become president because he is not a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 'Bill Sux' Etched on Pentium Chip
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Parrot Flower
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Sneaky Shark
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
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Man-Eating Catfish
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
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 'Creepy Gnome' 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
Urban Legends Sex Quiz
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
'Gay Jesus' Movie?
'Corpus Christi' movie: email petition aims to block the release of a movie (sometimes referred to by the title 'Corpus Christi') allegedly depicting Jesus Christ and his disciples as gay.
'Corpus Christi' movie: email petition aims to block the release of a movie (sometimes referred to by the title 'Corpus Christi') allegedly depicting Jesus Christ and his disciples as gay.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Freaky Fish
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
Bill Gates Is Sharing His Fortune! - Urban Legends
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, they're not conducting an email beta test, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his hard-earned fortune with people who forward silly chain letters.
Sorry, folks. Microsoft and AOL have not merged, they're not conducting an email beta test, nor has Bill Gates decided to share his hard-earned fortune with people who forward silly chain letters.
Origin of the F-Word - Urban Legends
In which we are told with a straight face that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King' (or some variation thereof).
In which we are told with a straight face that the word 'fuck' originated as the acronym of 'Fornication Under Consent of the King' (or some variation thereof).
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Human Statue of Liberty
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The 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.
Crocodile Eats Golfer (Photo) - Urban Legends
The impatient golfer was not located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, Ole Mose was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
The impatient golfer was not located, but his clubs were found on the hole. Three days later, Ole Mose was spotted on the seventh hole and was an immediate suspect...
Toxic Benzene in Parked Cars?
Forwarded email claims that car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene, which is used in the manufacture of dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It advises opening windows to expel trapped benzene before using the air conditioner or driving.
Forwarded email claims that car interiors contain toxic levels of cancer-causing benzene, which is used in the manufacture of dashboards, car seats, and air fresheners. It advises opening windows to expel trapped benzene before using the air conditioner or driving.
Giant Mutant Cat #2
Email caption: 'Why You Don't Feed Your Cat Table Scraps.'
Email caption: 'Why You Don't Feed Your Cat Table Scraps.'
'Mail Server Report' Virus
TRUE: A potentially destructive Internet virus (or 'worm') is propagating via emails sporting the header 'Mail Server Report.' However, some of the information circulating about this threat is inaccurate.
TRUE: A potentially destructive Internet virus (or 'worm') is propagating via emails sporting the header 'Mail Server Report.' However, some of the information circulating about this threat is inaccurate.
90# Telephone Scam - Urban Legends
Forwarded email warns telephone customers not to comply with instructions from persons claiming to be phone company service technicians to 'test the line' by dialing 90# or #90.
Forwarded email warns telephone customers not to comply with instructions from persons claiming to be phone company service technicians to 'test the line' by dialing 90# or #90.
Cook County Correctional Center (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos purportedly show the stylish and comfortable new digs of prison inmates in Chicago's Cook County Correctional Center.
Emailed photos purportedly show the stylish and comfortable new digs of prison inmates in Chicago's Cook County Correctional Center.
Email: Asparagus Cures Cancer
Emailed article attributed to a biochemist offers medical case histories collected with the help of alleged cancer expert 'Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S.' purporting to prove that eating asparagus may prevent and/or cure cancer.
Emailed article attributed to a biochemist offers medical case histories collected with the help of alleged cancer expert 'Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S.' purporting to prove that eating asparagus may prevent and/or cure 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
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Piranha on Steroids (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Crocodile Eats Golfer!
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 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
Animal-Human Hybrid (Photo) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Circulating via email, an unsettling photograph of what appears to be a half-human, half-animal creature suckling her hybrid offspring.
Doctors Find Live Worm in Patient's Eye - Urban Legends
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...
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Piranha on Steroids (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Albino Fawn
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
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...
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snake Swallows Man (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The Queen and Scottish Soldiers
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Dead Wife Coffee Table
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
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 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 nautical phrase.
Two Moons on August 27?
2007 version of an email rumor circulating since 2003 which claims that August 27 will bring the 'closest encounter' between Mars and Earth in recorded history. Supposedly, it will look as if there are two moons in the night sky.
2007 version of an email rumor circulating since 2003 which claims that August 27 will bring the 'closest encounter' between Mars and Earth in recorded history. Supposedly, it will look as if there are two moons in the night sky.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snake Swallows Man (#4)
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
Face in Smoke on 9-11 - Urban Legends
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snake Swallows Man (#3)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Air Force Jets Fly in USA Formation
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snake Swallows Man (#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
Close Encounter with Mars on August 27 - Urban Legends
2006 variant of years-old email hoax repeats outdated claim that during the month of August the orbits of Mars and Earth will bring the two planets closer together than ever before in recorded history.
2006 variant of years-old email hoax repeats outdated claim that during the month of August the orbits of Mars and Earth will bring the two planets closer together than ever before in recorded history.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Giant Razorback Hog
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
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.
Baby Carrots and Chlorine
Email flier claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
Email flier claims baby carrots sold in supermarkets pose a consumer health risk because they're processed in chlorine.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Doctors Find Live Worm in Patient's Eye
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The Lion Cut (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snake vs. Electric Fence
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The 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.
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...
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Hurricane Lili - Triple Waterspout
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The 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...
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The Lion Cut (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Texas Rattlesnake
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
Puppy with a Heart (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos show a chihuahua puppy born in Japan with a heart-shaped pattern in its coat.
Emailed photos show a chihuahua puppy born in Japan with a heart-shaped pattern in its coat.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Snowball, the Giant Mutant Cat
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
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?
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
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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The 9/11 Tourist Guy (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Texas Rattlesnake #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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Tsunami Strikes Thailand
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Tiger Nurses Piglets (#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
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 Urban Legends Slide Show - Tiger Nurses Piglets (#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
Polar Bear Attack (Photos) - Urban Legends
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Moose on a Wire
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?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The 9/11 Tourist Guy (#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
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The 9/11 Tourist Guy (#3)
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
Fear of Licking
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn...
In the world according to urban folklore, horrors await us at every turn...
Teacher Slams Obama?
An open letter to President Obama attributed to Hillsboro, Missouri elementary school teacher Kathleen Lyday expresses one citizen's vehement displeasure with the way the country is being run.
An open letter to President Obama attributed to Hillsboro, Missouri elementary school teacher Kathleen Lyday expresses one citizen's vehement displeasure with the way the country is being run.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The 9/11 Tourist Guy (#4)
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - World's Highest Bridge
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 1964 Mock-Up of 'Home Computer'
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Black and White Twins
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - The 9/11 Tourist Guy (#5)
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 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.
Card Trick: I Can Read Your Mind! - Urban Legends
I can read your mind! Don't believe me? Here, I'll prove it...
I can read your mind! Don't believe me? Here, I'll prove it...
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.
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.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Texas Rattlesnake #3
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - North Pole Sunset
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
Don't Answer Cell Phone While It's Charging! - Urban Legends
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.