FBI St. Louis Office Reminds Public of Consequences of Hoax School Threats

Due to an uptick of hoax threats in our area, the FBI St. Louis Field Office is reminding the public of the consequences of making a hoax threat against a school or other public place. 

Issuing a threat—even over social media, via text message or through email—is a federal crime. Those who post or send these threats can receive up to five years in federal prison, or they can face state or local charges.

In addition to consequences for individuals who issue threats, there is also a significant societal cost. Schools and law enforcement agencies have limited resources, and responding to hoax threats diverts officers and disrupts student learning. The threats can also cause severe emotional distress to students, school personnel and parents.

What Should I Do?

• Don’t ever post or send any hoax threats online … period.
• If you are a target of an online threat, alert local law enforcement immediately.
• If you see a threat of violence posted on social media, immediately contact local law enforcement or your local FBI office. 
  • Members of the public can always submit a tip to the FBI at tips.fbi.gov.
  • Courage2Report Missouri is another option to make an anonymous tip. Report online or call 1-866-748-7047, or text “C2R” to 738477. 
  • Students can also contact a trusted adult – at home or at school – when they are the target of an online threat or see a threat of violence posted on social media.
• Notify authorities but don’t share or forward the threat until law enforcement has had a chance to investigate—this can spread misinformation and cause panic.
• If you are a parent or family member, know that some young people post these threats online as a cry for attention or as a way to get revenge or exert control. Talk to your child about the proper outlet for their stress or other emotions, and explain the importance of responsible social media use and the consequences of posting hoax threats.