"National Rape Day" is a viral social media hoax that first surfaced in April 2021. It is characterized by claims that sexual assault is "legal" or "encouraged" on April 24th, a narrative that has been repeatedly debunked by researchers, law enforcement, and social media platforms. Overview of the Hoax
: While TikTok reported no evidence of the original video, the hashtag #April24 and related content amassed millions of views. Most of these were "response videos" from users sharing safety warnings or making threats against potential perpetrators, which inadvertently helped the hoax spread. RAPE DAY
: It creates a climate of fear, leading many women and girls to alter their behavior, such as staying indoors or carrying weapons for protection. "National Rape Day" is a viral social media
: Researchers at ISD Global label this "zombie misinformation" because it resurfaces nearly every April despite being thoroughly debunked. Impact and Social Harms Most of these were "response videos" from users
: Police departments globally have issued statements confirming there is no such "legal" day and that all sexual assault remains a serious criminal offense.