News Summary
Mary Kate Cornett, a University of Mississippi student, is combating false allegations of inappropriate behavior that are labeled as a coordinated cyber attack. Her family has filed police reports and is pursuing legal action against those spreading the rumors. In response, the Cornetts have launched a GoFundMe campaign to support victims of online harassment. This alarming case highlights the serious impact of misinformation on social media and the need for responsible sharing of information.
Oxford, Mississippi – Mary Kate Cornett, a student at the University of Mississippi, is at the center of alarming viral rumors accusing her of inappropriate behavior, which she firmly states are “categorically false.” These allegations have led Mary Kate, along with her father, Justin Cornett, to speak out against what they describe as a coordinated online attack aimed at damaging her reputation and mental wellbeing.
Justin Cornett publicly condemned the spread of these rumors on social media, labeling them a “defamatory cyber attack” that is both “malicious” and “organized.” He revealed that the severity of the situation has resulted in the family filing police reports with local law enforcement, the UMPD, and even the FBI, due to the threats and personal information that has been shared online. Mary Kate has been “publicly doxed,” which has raised concerns for her safety and prompted the Cornett family to take protective measures.
According to Justin, the origins of this situation may trace back to what he suspects was a fraternity prank that spiraled out of control. In response to the online harassment, the Cornetts are working with forensic experts to identify those responsible for the damaging rumors. Justin has expressed a commitment to pursuing all possible legal actions to defend his family from these harmful accusations.
The family has also taken steps to support those similarly affected by cyber crimes. They launched a GoFundMe campaign, pledging that all proceeds will aid victims who lack the financial means to seek justice against online harassment and defamation. Mary Kate, in light of her experience, aims to turn her painful situation into a platform to raise awareness, hoping to help others facing similar attacks.
Mary Kate provided details on the nature of the rumors, describing them as the result of a “deliberate and coordinated cyberattack” involving manipulated images, edited screenshots, and even fake AI-generated videos. She has criticized various social media influencers and notable figures—such as a former NFL player and a well-known sports commentator—for amplifying the false rumors without proper fact-checking.
Despite the concerning circumstances, some public figures have distanced themselves from the viral rumors. A founder of a prominent sports media company stated that their organization refrained from sharing the story due to uncertainties about its credibility and the potential harm it could cause to those involved.
The attack has had a profound impact on Mary Kate, leading her to receive thousands of harassing messages, including disturbing threats that urge her to harm herself. The traumatic experience has made her a trending topic on various social media platforms, and her likeness has been exploited in the creation of a meme coin without her consent.
Mary Kate’s boyfriend has also entered the discussion, defending her against these unfounded claims and highlighting the serious implications of spreading misinformation online. Both Mary Kate and her father are exploring their legal options concerning the false accusations and the considerable damage to her reputation and emotional health.
The situation raises important questions regarding the spreading of information on social media and the consequences of defamation in the digital age. The Cornett family’s case serves as a reminder of the potential fallout from unchecked rumors and the critical need for responsible information sharing in the face of modern cyber challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Mississippi Student Targeted by Online Harassment
New Professional Fraternity Launches at University of Mississippi
ESPN Host Pat McAfee Caught in Controversy Over False Rumors
Oxford Police Department Honored for Support to Crime Victims
Oxford Honored for Exceptional Crime Victim Services
University of Mississippi Raises $11.5 Million on Giving Day
University Freshman Faces Harassment from Viral Rumor
University Student Confronts False Rumors and Cyberbullying
Hazing Allegations Rock Ole Miss Fraternity Scene
New Moving Company Opens in Oxford to Assist Students
Additional Resources
- Glamour: Mary Kate Cornett’s Cyber Attack
- Wikipedia: Cyberbullying
- Clarion Ledger: Mary Kate Cornett’s Family Files Police Report
- Google Search: Mary Kate Cornett Cyberattack
- E! Online: Mary Kate Cornett’s Family Slams Malicious Allegations
- Google Scholar: Cyber Defamation
- People: Family Outraged by Viral Rumors
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cybercrime
- NY Post: Mary Kate Cornett Takes Aim at Pat McAfee
- Google News: Mary Kate Cornett
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
