HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania officials are urging caution as schools across the state face a surge in reported threats, many of which are linked to social media-based pranks. The warnings come from a coalition of state leaders, including Attorney General Michelle Henry, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, Education Secretary Dr. Khalid N. Mumin, and State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris.
Officials highlighted that the sharp rise in threats since the start of the 2024-2025 school year, while concerning, is largely fueled by false alarms circulating online. The state’s Safe2Say Something program, which allows students and community members to report potential threats, has seen a 50% increase in tips this year, many of which are tied to non-credible threats.
“It is certainly not a desired avenue of my office or law enforcement partners to criminally charge a student,” Attorney General Henry said, while underscoring the harm caused by false reports. “Intentional false reports traumatize other students and school communities at large, while hampering overall efforts to keep schools and students safe from real threats of violence.”
Officials are particularly concerned about the role of social media in spreading panic. Many of the threats, according to Lt. Gov. Davis, originate from outside local communities and are designed to go viral, amplifying fear. He encouraged parents to talk to their children about distinguishing between credible concerns and social media hoaxes.
“Every Pennsylvania kid deserves to be safe and feel safe in their community,” Davis said, acknowledging the ongoing concerns about school safety. “As a new dad, I empathize with those concerns, but it’s important for parents to know the facts and talk to our kids about what they’re hearing at school and seeing online.”
Col. Paris emphasized the strain false reports place on law enforcement, noting that all threats are treated seriously. “Some threats are identified early on as pranks or social media hoaxes,” Paris said, while urging parents to discuss the responsible use of social media with their children.
State education leaders are also advocating for the use of resources like Safe2Say Something to help students and educators address potential threats before they escalate. “We want every student to feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to learn,” said Secretary Mumin, stressing the importance of both safety and mental health support in schools.
