False alarms: Parents in KZN urged to address dangerous TikTok prank with their children
A viral TikTok prank trend is causing panic and abusing emergency resources in KwaZulu-Natal, prompting security officials to urge parents to discuss the seriousness of these pranks with their children.
Private security company, Blue Security has raised the alarm after responding to multiple false emergencies triggered by children participating in a viral trend where they call their parents claiming that intruders are at their homes.
Within just 24 hours last week, Blue Security’s control centre in the Upper Highway area received two such false alarms, prompting immediate call-outs by first responders.
According to Blue Security’s Commercial Director, Stephen Wimborne, these incidents have far-reaching consequences beyond wasted time.
“Every unnecessary call-out diverts our first responders from genuine emergencies,” said Wimborne.
“When resources are wasted on pranks, it increases the risk of slower response times when someone truly needs help.”
He said the rise of online pranks presents new challenges for emergency services, particularly when social media trends blur the line between humour and harm.
Wimborne urged parents and guardians to address the issue directly with their children, warning that the pranks can cause real distress to families and communities.
“It is vital that families discuss the seriousness of these online trends,” he said. “What may appear to be a harmless joke can create panic, cause emotional distress, and waste valuable emergency resources.”
One Durban parent, said he personally experienced the distress caused by the prank.
“I fell victim to the TikTok trend last week. I was at the Bafana v Zimbabwe game at Moses Mabhida, and these kids decided to play the prank on me. When they sent the pictures, I nearly fainted and was about to leave the stadium when they told me they were playing a practical joke on me. I have a heart problem, and the joke really affected my heart rate after that,” he said.
False call-outs not only place unnecessary pressure on security teams but can also erode trust within neighbourhoods, especially when residents become uncertain about the authenticity of future emergencies.
“Protecting generations is not only about responding to threats,” added Wimborne. “It is also about teaching accountability and awareness so that our communities remain safe and informed.”