Back from the dead: Why internet hoaxes refuse to die

WASHINGTON — As Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg reappears in headlines and public interviews, an old internet rumor from 2020 has begun circulating once again—this time gaining traction on TikTok.

The viral post features what appears to be a newspaper clipping containing a sensational and disturbing claim. But the image isn’t from a real newspaper. According to digital media analysts, it was created using a free online tool that generates fake newspaper layouts. These sites, originally intended for jokes or novelty headlines among friends, allow users to type any message into a template and produce a realistic-looking front page.

While typically used for harmless pranks, these generators can also be misused to spread misinformation. Experts say that once such an image is posted without context, it can quickly take on a life of its own—especially on social media platforms designed for rapid sharing and emotional engagement.

What begins as a hoax or parody often becomes indistinguishable from real news when it’s removed from its original context. The fake clipping involving Buttigieg is just the latest example of how recycled falsehoods can regain momentum whenever a public figure returns to public attention.

Researchers caution that this phenomenon is part of a larger pattern: provocative content gets posted, reshared, and amplified, while the original source or intent fades away. The result is a recurring cycle of confusion and outrage that can distort public understanding.

Experts encourage users to take a moment to verify questionable claims before sharing. A quick search can often reveal the origin of a misleading image or quote. In an age where misinformation can be manufactured in seconds, the habit of pausing and checking the facts is more crucial than ever.