Internet Rumor Leads to Harassment and Legal Action
Viral rumor defamation has upended the life of Mary Kate Cornett, a 19-year-old freshman at the University of Mississippi. She now says the experience has “ruined” her life, leading to intense harassment, threats, and even a police response at her mother’s home.
The false claim, which quickly spread online in February, alleged that Cornett had engaged in inappropriate behavior with her boyfriend’s father. Despite having no truth, the rumor gained traction on platforms like YikYak and X (formerly Twitter). The high-profile personalities like ESPN’s Pat McAfee and Barstool Sports-affiliated figures amplifying the story.
How the Rumor Spread
On February 26, McAfee discussed the alleged scandal on The Pat McAfee Show, without naming Cornett. But implying a fraternity and sorority connection at Ole Miss. His clip was shared on X, gaining over 1.8 million views. Other influencers followed suit, further embedding the false claim in viral culture.
Cornett first heard about the rumor through friends and soon noticed people staring at her on campus. Within hours, her name was trending on X, leading to thousands of messages, death threats, and calls for her to die.
“This has affected me in such an awful way and has practically ruined my life,” Cornett said. “No one asked me if this was true. They just ran with it.”
Legal Action Against McAfee, ESPN, and Others
Cornett’s attorney, Monica Uddin, says the incident qualifies as cyberbullying and defamation. She argues that mentioning a story without naming a person does not absolve someone of responsibility if the subject is easily identifiable.
“You can’t lie for money,” Uddin said, signaling a possible lawsuit against McAfee, ESPN, and other platforms that contributed to spreading the rumor.
Cornett’s father, Justin Cornett, has also spoken out, calling for accountability from influencers who irresponsibly wield their platforms.
The Lasting Impact of False Online Claims
Beyond legal action, Cornett says she has suffered severe emotional distress, struggling with anxiety, loss of sleep, and physical sickness from the stress. She had to switch to online classes to avoid the constant stares and whispers.
The situation escalated to swatting, where Houston police showed up to her mother’s home, guns drawn, after a false report was made.
Now, Cornett is warning others:
“If this happened to me, it could happen to anyone.”
As the internet increasingly shapes public perception, Cornett’s case highlights the real-world dangers of viral misinformation and reckless social media commentary.
Source: NBC
