FBI launches campaign to stop hoax threats

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ) – The Federal Bureau of Investigation announced a new campaign Wednesday, aimed at educating the public on the consequences of posting hoax threats to schools and other public places.

The FBI says the #ThinkBeforeYouPost campaign comes after an uptick in the number of false threats made against schools and other public places following the shootings at Marshall County High School, Santa Fe High School, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

The agency says people need to know hoax threats are not a joke and anyone who does make a false threat could face federal charges and prison time.

The FBI is also encouraging people to report any potential threats or suspicious activity to law enforcement, saying early intervention can prevent a situation from escalating.