Urban Legends: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Hoax Quiz - Spot the Fakes!
Real or Fake? Take the quiz and see if you can tell the hoax photos from the real thing!
Real or Fake? Take the quiz and see if you can tell the hoax photos from the real thing!
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
'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'
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.
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.
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
Top 25 Urban Legends
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
Most popular urban legends topics of the past week
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.
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.
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.
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)?
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.
SB-2099 - Diabolical Conspiracy to Tax Handguns - Urban Legends
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle it with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
S.B.-2099: Take a grain of truth, sprinkle it with false and misleading statements, add a heaping dollop of paranoia, and what do you have?
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.
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.
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.
Top 10 Scariest Urban Legends
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
The Top 10 scariest urban legends ever told
Amazing Music Machine (Video) - Urban Legends
Emailed video of an 'amazing music machine' allegedly manufactured out of farm equipment parts at the University of Iowa
Emailed video of an 'amazing music machine' allegedly manufactured out of farm equipment parts at the University of Iowa
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
JFK: 'I Am a Jelly Donut'
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
Did Germans chuckle with embarrassment when John F. Kennedy uttered the words 'Ich bin ein Berliner' at a Berlin Wall ceremony in 1963?
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
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.
Emailed Swine Flu Tips
Forwarded email attributed to various Indian physicians as well as America's 'Dr. Oz' purports to give sound advice on preventing H1N1 swine flu.
Forwarded email attributed to various Indian physicians as well as America's 'Dr. Oz' purports to give sound advice on preventing H1N1 swine flu.
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
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
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!
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.
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.
Onions and Flu
Onions and flu: Forwarded email claims placing sliced onions around the home will 'collect' or 'absorb' any flu virus present and protect members of the household from coming down with influenza.
Onions and flu: Forwarded email claims placing sliced onions around the home will 'collect' or 'absorb' any flu virus present and protect members of the household from coming down with influenza.
Obama vs. Christmas
Forwarded email claims the Obamas will have 'holiday trees' instead of Christmas trees in the White House this year, and no ornaments with religious themes will be allowed.
Forwarded email claims the Obamas will have 'holiday trees' instead of Christmas trees in the White House this year, and no ornaments with religious themes will be allowed.
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
Giant Catfish Picture (Photo) - Urban Legends
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
Emailed photo of a huge catfish supposedly caught in Lake Texoma, Texas in 2004.
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'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?
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?
*77 or #77 Emergency Cell Phone Feature - Urban Legends
Female college student pulled over in her car by a cop-impersonating would-be rapist is rescued by a real officer after dialing #77 (or *77) on her cell phone.
Female college student pulled over in her car by a cop-impersonating would-be rapist is rescued by a real officer after dialing #77 (or *77) on her cell phone.
Petition 2493 (Pastor Removal from Television) - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, new variants of a decades-old petition expressing outrage over the alleged attempt by atheists to force a ban on religious broadcasting in the United States.
Circulating via email, new variants of a decades-old petition expressing outrage over the alleged attempt by atheists to force a ban on religious broadcasting in the United States.
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
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!
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.
New Carjacking Scheme?
Email rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a sticker or flyer on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
Email rumor warns of a new carjacking scheme involving the placement of a sticker or flyer on the victim's rear window to fool them into exiting the vehicle with the engine running.
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.
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'
Sherry Hackett on Obama
An open letter to Barack Obama attributed to Sherry Hackett, wife of deceased comedian Buddy Hackett, accuses the President of doing 'more to destroy this nation than the attack on 9/11.'
An open letter to Barack Obama attributed to Sherry Hackett, wife of deceased comedian Buddy Hackett, accuses the President of doing 'more to destroy this nation than the attack on 9/11.'
Nidal Hasan Worked for Obama?
Online rumor claims that Nidal Hasan, who killed 14 people and wounded 30 during a shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas on Nov. 5, 2009, was a member of President Obama's Homeland Security transition team.
Online rumor claims that Nidal Hasan, who killed 14 people and wounded 30 during a shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas on Nov. 5, 2009, was a member of President Obama's Homeland Security transition team.
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...
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.
Xmas Cards for Noah Biorkman
Email chain letter requests Christmas cards for Noah Biorkman, a terminally ill 5-year-old in South Lyon, Michigan suffering from neuroblastoma cancer.
Email chain letter requests Christmas cards for Noah Biorkman, a terminally ill 5-year-old in South Lyon, Michigan suffering from neuroblastoma cancer.
'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.
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
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.
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?
New Dollar Coin Omits 'In God We Trust' - Urban Legends
New dollar coin gaffe: Email rumor claims the motto 'In God We Trust' was omitted from new one-dollar U.S. coins.
New dollar coin gaffe: Email rumor claims the motto 'In God We Trust' was omitted from new one-dollar U.S. coins.
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
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...
'Obama Phones' for the Needy?
Forwarded email claims the Obama administration has started a program whereby taxpayer money is being 'redistributed' to provide free cell phones and service to welfare recipients.
Forwarded email claims the Obama administration has started a program whereby taxpayer money is being 'redistributed' to provide free cell phones and service to welfare recipients.
Satan's Face in Smoke on 9-11 - Urban Legends
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
Some viewers were convinced they saw the face of Satan in clouds of smoke billowing out of the World Trade Center after it was struck by a jetliner on 9/11
Urban Legends Sex Quiz
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
Quiz: Urban Legends about romance, sex, and scandal
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
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
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 Clown Statue
A babysitter calls the parents she's working for to ask if she can cover up the disturbing 'clown statue' in the room where she's watching TV. The parents tell her to call 911 immediately and get out of the house!
A babysitter calls the parents she's working for to ask if she can cover up the disturbing 'clown statue' in the room where she's watching TV. The parents tell her to call 911 immediately and get out of the house!
Navy Warship USS New York - Urban Legends
Forwarded email accurately describes the USS New York, a Navy warship built using 24 tons of scrap metal from the fallen towers of the World Trade Center
Forwarded email accurately describes the USS New York, a Navy warship built using 24 tons of scrap metal from the fallen towers of the World Trade Center
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.
Don't Answer Cell Phone While It's Charging! - Urban Legends
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
Email alert claims a young man was killed (electrocuted) when he answered a cell phone that was plugged in to charge the battery.
The 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.
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.
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
Worm Found in Patient's Eye
When the doctors operated, what was thought to be a growth or cyst actually turned out to be a live worm; what was thought initially to be mere dust in the patient's eye was actually an insect's egg!
When the doctors operated, what was thought to be a growth or cyst actually turned out to be a live worm; what was thought initially to be mere dust in the patient's eye was actually an insect's egg!
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)
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.
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.
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 - 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
Photos of Giant Wild Boar?
Emailed photos of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed in Conroe, Texas by a radiology technician.
Emailed photos of a gigantic, 1,800-pound wild boar allegedly shot and killed in Conroe, Texas by a radiology technician.
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.
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?
HR 1388 and Hamas Refugees
Forwarded email claims President Obama has funded a $20 million resettlement of Hamas refugees to the United States via H.R. 1388, a bill supposedly passed 'behind our backs' by Congress.
Forwarded email claims President Obama has funded a $20 million resettlement of Hamas refugees to the United States via H.R. 1388, a bill supposedly passed 'behind our backs' by Congress.
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
Eminem Dead in Car Crash?
Web hoax claims famed rapper Eminem died in a car crash.
Web hoax claims famed rapper Eminem died in a car crash.
Air Hand Dryers Unsanitary?
Forwarded email claims that electric hot-air hand dryers more unsanitary than paper towels because they blow bacteria around and spread disease.
Forwarded email claims that electric hot-air hand dryers more unsanitary than paper towels because they blow bacteria around and spread disease.
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
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
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.
Snopes Under Fire
Snopes liberal bias? Forwarded email alleges that the urban legend debunking site Snopes.com is 'owned by a flaming liberal' who is 'in the tank for Obama' and can't be trusted to provide reliable information.
Snopes liberal bias? Forwarded email alleges that the urban legend debunking site Snopes.com is 'owned by a flaming liberal' who is 'in the tank for Obama' and can't be trusted to provide reliable information.
The Urban Legends Slide Show - Parrot Flower
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
A gallery of odd and arresting images - some real, some fake, some persistently enigmatic - as circulated via email
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 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
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
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.'
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 - 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 - 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
Wal-Mart Cash Back Scam - Netlore Archive
Email rumor claims a Wal-Mart cashier stole $20 from a customer by surreptitiously triggering the 'cash back' option during a credit card transaction
Email rumor claims a Wal-Mart cashier stole $20 from a customer by surreptitiously triggering the 'cash back' option during a credit card transaction
General 'Black Jack' Pershing vs. Muslim Terrorists - Urban Legends
Did U.S. General 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism in 1911 by executing a group of Muslim terrorists and burying them in a grave filled with pig's blood and entrails?
Did U.S. General 'Black Jack' Pershing rid the Philippines of Islamic extremism in 1911 by executing a group of Muslim terrorists and burying them in a grave filled with pig's blood and entrails?
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
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.
Mermaid Pictures - Dead Mermaid Found After Tsunami - Urban Legends
Emailed photos allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach at Chennai, India by the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
Emailed photos allegedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid washed up on a beach at Chennai, India by the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004.
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
Ben Stein: Christmas Confessions - Urban Legends
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author, pundit, actor, and game show host Ben Stein.
Circulating via email, a commentary on the state of American culture attributed to author, pundit, actor, and game show host Ben Stein.
Carson Williams' Christmas House (Video) - Urban Legends
Viral video of Carson Williams' suburban house decorated with animated Christmas lights synchronized to 'Wizards of Winter' by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Viral video of Carson Williams' suburban house decorated with animated Christmas lights synchronized to 'Wizards of Winter' by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Jelly Bracelets - An Invitation to Sex? - Urban Legends
It is widely believed - apparently more so by adults than by the teenagers themselves - that the 'jelly bracelets' currently popular among junior high school students are color-coded according to the wearer's willingness to perform certain sexual acts
It is widely believed - apparently more so by adults than by the teenagers themselves - that the 'jelly bracelets' currently popular among junior high school students are color-coded according to the wearer's willingness to perform certain sexual acts
Mermaid Pictures - Dead Mermaid Found in the Philippines - Urban Legends
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
Emailed pictures purportedly show the carcass of a dead mermaid found washed up on a beach in the Philippines.
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
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.
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.
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 - 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 Altoids Effect - Altoids Mints and Oral Sex - Urban Legends
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before fellatio (oral sex) enhance the pleasure?
Altoids Lore: Does chewing this 'curiously strong' brand of mint before fellatio (oral sex) enhance the pleasure?
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 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
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).
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
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 - 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
'Code Grabbing' Car Thieves?
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 (a technique called 'code grabbing') 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 (a technique called 'code grabbing') and gain entry to the vehicle.
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
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 - 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
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.
Can People Look Up My Driver's License on the Internet?
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
Website purports to offer free, easy access to personal information contained in state driver's license databases
The Urban Legends Slide Show - 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
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
Is Tommy Hilfiger a Racist?
False rumors alleging that fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger made racist statements on the Oprah Winfrey Show are circulating (again) via email
False rumors alleging that fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger made racist statements on the Oprah Winfrey Show are circulating (again) via email
Motorcycle / Boating Accident
Depending on which version you receive, the caption accompanying this emailed photo claims this poor patient was impaled on a fencepost after losing control of his motorcycle or boat.
Depending on which version you receive, the caption accompanying this emailed photo claims this poor patient was impaled on a fencepost after losing control of his motorcycle or boat.
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 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
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.
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).
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...
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...
What Are ULs?
Infrequently answered questions about the whys and wherefores of those silly-yet-irresistable stories called 'urban legends.'
Infrequently answered questions about the whys and wherefores of those silly-yet-irresistable stories called 'urban legends.'
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.
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.
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 - 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
Brown Recluse Spider Bite 6
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
This rather disturbing sequence of images purports to show the progressive deterioration of a wound caused by the bite of the poisonous brown recluse spider.
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
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 - 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
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
Boycott USPS 'Muslim Stamp' ('Muslim Holiday Stamp') - Urban Legends
Email urges boycott of a Muslim holiday stamp (or so-called 'Christmas stamp' for Muslims), an actual U.S. postage stamp released in 2001 and re-issued annually to commemorate the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Email urges boycott of a Muslim holiday stamp (or so-called 'Christmas stamp' for Muslims), an actual U.S. postage stamp released in 2001 and re-issued annually to commemorate the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
The Hook
The Hook: A teenager drove his date to Lovers' Lane for a make-out session before it was time to take her home. The place was very dark and deserted...
The Hook: A teenager drove his date to Lovers' Lane for a make-out session before it was time to take her home. The place was very dark and deserted...
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
Half Human, Half Animal
Most copies of this viral image are accompanied by a caption reading, 'Look at the human dog!' In reality, it's a sculpture created by artist Patricia Piccinini.
Most copies of this viral image are accompanied by a caption reading, 'Look at the human dog!' In reality, it's a sculpture created by artist Patricia Piccinini.
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
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
412-Pound Deer Killed (Photos) - Urban Legends
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska, depending on version).
Emailed photos allegedly show a 412-pound deer killed by a hunter in Clarion County, Pennsylvania (or in Nebraska, depending on version).
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...
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
Britney Spears Death Hoax
False reports of the deaths of singers Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake run rampant on the Internet
False reports of the deaths of singers Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake run rampant on the Internet