A NEW TikTok trend has reached KwaZulu-Natal, with local families unknowingly caught in a viral prank that leads to false emergency call-outs and unnecessary distress.

In recent days, Blue Security’s control centre has received multiple distress calls triggered by children prank-calling their parents to claim that intruders were on their property. Within a 24-hour period last week, Blue Security teams in the Upper Highway area responded to two such incidents.

According to Stephen Wimborne, commercial director at Blue Security, these false alarms have serious implications. “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.”

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Wimborne urged parents and guardians to address the issue at home. “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.”

Communities are encouraged to remain alert but also to act responsibly in order to maintain safety and trust within neighbourhoods.

“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.”

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