Brownsville ISD is warning students and parents about a viral social media trend called the “Cat in the Hat” that could lead to criminal consequences.

According to ABC News, the trend “includes videos and images depicting the Dr. Seuss character appearing to lurk outside homes, schools, and other locations, often at night. Some of the content appears to be generated using artificial intelligence.”

While many of the posts appear to be a prank, officials say some of the posts have included threatening language and names specific schools, communities, or students, ABC News added.

The Brownsville ISD Police Department says officers must treat potential threats seriously, even if a student's post is part of a social media trend.

The district is asking parents to speak to their children about the trend and pay attention to what they are seeing and sharing online.

The district's notice also warns students against trespassing or using masks or disguises to frighten or intimidate people.

When it comes to school threats, even a hoax can result in an arrest, according to the police chief.

“Anytime we have a threat of violence against any of our schools, that we determine that it's a hoax, most of the time somebody gets arrested for false alarm reports," Brownsville ISD Police Chief Anna Gaucin said. "So we're looking at criminal consequences in addition to the administrative ones."

Gaucin said parents can also play a big role in prevention by knowing what their children are doing online.

If a student or parent sees something concerning, Brownsville ISD urges community members to report it as soon as possible at 956-698-3115.

Watch the video above for the full story.