Boiler Bay Beacon
Social media accounts using AI-generated images of the Cat in the Hat have named Oregon locations, including the Oregon State Fair, although no post reviewed by the Beacon targeted Lincoln County.
A Lincoln County child showed the Beacon several TikTok accounts posting images and videos that claim the character is “coming for” different communities and events. The child’s identity is being protected because they are a minor.
“People are posting on TikTok that he’s coming for you,” the child said. “A lot of people are really afraid because they don’t know it’s AI-generated. Some are actually people dressing up in costumes and taking photos.”
The accounts viewed on the child’s device included posts naming the Oregon State Fair and other locations. The child also pointed to claims involving Portland. None of the accounts reviewed mentioned Lincoln County.
No related warning had been posted by the Oregon State Fair, Lincoln County School District or Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office as of Tuesday afternoon.
The posts are part of a rapidly spreading trend that combines AI-generated pictures, edited video and photographs of people wearing costumes. The character is commonly shown standing outside a house, walking along a dark street or appearing near a school. Captions then suggest it is headed to a particular location or coming after people named in the post.
The hoax has already caused school disruptions elsewhere.
The Sequim School District in Washington issued a warning after local posts appeared as part of what it called the “Cat in the Hat Names List.” Students helped administrators identify those responsible, and the district issued discipline. Officials said there was no intent to cause actual harm.
In Kentucky, investigators identified a juvenile connected to a Cat in the Hat-themed TikTok account after students reported threatening posts. Authorities said charges would be filed.
The FBI warns that fake school threats can result in suspension, expulsion, arrest or prosecution. Police must initially investigate threats as potentially real, regardless of whether the person posting them considers the content a joke.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents ask children what they are seeing online and allow them to explain it before beginning a lecture.
Parents can point out that scary images and captions are often designed to grab attention and generate shares. Children should be encouraged to check whether a school, police department or other reliable source has confirmed a claim.
This reporter asked his kids if they were aware of the trend. They said they were, and knew it was all just “fake.” A gentle reminder to not participate in the trend and never name a person, school, or business appeared to be well received.
Posts naming a child, school or specific location should not be circulated publicly. Account information and screenshots should be saved and reported to school officials or law enforcement.
Oregon residents can also report school-safety concerns through SafeOregon by calling or texting 844-472-3367. Immediate threats should be reported to 911.
