U.S. schools and police warn of viral AI ‘Cat in the Hat’ trend

School districts and law enforcement agencies across the United States are issuing warnings regarding a viral social media trend known as the ‘Cat in the Hat’ trend. The trend involves AI-generated or digitally altered images and videos depicting the Dr. Seuss character lurking outside of homes, schools, or other locations at night.

Authorities have noted that some content specifically references individual students, particular communities, or specific schools, prompting investigations by law enforcement in several states. In Grand Junction, Colorado, a high school student was recently arrested in connection with a post related to the trend.

The Palm Springs Unified School District stated that while they have not received reports of students being targeted or exposed within their district, the trend remains concerning. Officials noted that even content intended as a joke can cause fear, disrupt school operations, and require significant law enforcement resources to investigate.

School officials are advising students and families to avoid engaging with or reposting concerning content, to save evidence via screenshots, and to immediately report any threats or disturbing messages to a trusted adult or law enforcement.