Canutillo ISD addresses ‘Cat in the Hat’ social media trend

CANUTILLO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Canutillo Independent School District said it's aware of a social media trend that could be depicted as a threat.

The "Cat in the Hat" trend involves artificial intelligence (AI) pictures and videos of the Dr. Seuss character. Some videos appear to show people wearing a costume of the character.

Some videos use the character's likeness to say it's going to appear in certain cities in a menacing manner.

CISD said the trend appears to be a hoax, but warned it could lead to legal consequences. The district posted the following statement to its social media:

"Canutillo ISD is aware of the “Cat in the Hat” trend circulating on social media.

We want to reassure our families and community that we are not aware of any credible or specific threat directed toward any Canutillo ISD campus or the Canutillo community.

We are working closely with state and federal law enforcement agencies, who have indicated that the trend appears to be a hoax involving AI-generated images and videos. At this time, law enforcement has found no evidence that the activity depicted in these posts is actually occurring.

We urge parents to talk with students about the serious consequences of creating or sharing threats of violence involving schools. Threats are not jokes or harmless pranks. Depending on the circumstances, making or sharing a threat can carry serious legal consequences, including substantial fines and potential jail time.

If you see a social media post specifically referencing Canutillo ISD, one of our campuses or our community, please do not share or repost it. Instead, report it to Canutillo ISD at 915-877-6650 so we can evaluate the information and take appropriate action.

Thank you for helping us keep our students, staff and community safe."