News Summary
Mary Kate Cornett, a University of Mississippi student, is at the center of a cyber attack involving false rumors and online harassment. Her father, Justin Cornett, labels it a ‘defamatory cyber attack’ and is pursuing legal action. Amid rising threats and distress for the Cornett family, law enforcement is involved, and a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to support victims of cyber crimes. Mary Kate criticizes the spread of misinformation, emphasizing the need for caution and verification in the digital age.
Oxford, Mississippi – A Cloud of Controversy Surrounds University of Mississippi Student
In the heart of Oxford, Mississippi, University of Mississippi student Mary Kate Cornett is finding herself embroiled in a whirlwind of rumors that have taken the internet by storm. Upon hearing the news, many were shocked to learn that this situation has escalated into what her father, Justin Cornett, refers to as a “defamatory cyber attack.” He insists that the rumors floating around are not just incorrect, but are also “categorically false, malicious, and organized.”
The Rise of Online Rumors
Mary Kate, a proud member of the Kappa Delta Sorority, is now facing the difficulties that come with being the target of online speculations. These rumors have gained traction at an alarming rate, leading to significant distress for her and her family. Mary Kate has openly spoken against these allegations, stating they are completely untrue and fabricated. Unfortunately, the impact of cyber rumors is not limited to mere gossip, as the Cornett family has reported receiving threats, forcing them to take precautionary measures to ensure Mary Kate’s safety.
Law Enforcement Steps In
The situation has prompted Justin Cornett to take action by filing police reports with multiple authorities, including the Oxford Police Department, campus police, and even the FBI. They are currently working alongside forensic experts to trace the origins of this online harassment. It’s believed that the malicious rumors may have originated as a prank intended by some fraternity members, but what started as a supposed joke spiraled out of control, affecting the lives of those involved.
Legal Action on the Horizon
Justin Cornett has vowed to pursue both criminal and civil actions against any entities found to be responsible for these false claims. Meanwhile, he has taken a benevolent step by launching a GoFundMe campaign aimed at aiding “less fortunate” victims of cyber crimes, pledging that all proceeds will assist others facing similar challenges.
Drawing Attention to Cyber Harassment
In her own response to the accusations, Mary Kate has highlighted that the rumors rely on “partially and wholly edited screenshots,” alongside fabricated AI-generated videos and manipulated images. She has criticized influential figures and athletes associated with Barstool Sports for sharing the rumors without verifying their accuracy, adding more fuel to the already blazing fire. Following these events, Mary Kate found herself trending on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), with her name even being used to create memes and tokens without her consent.
Investigation Underway
The Oxford Police Department has confirmed that they are currently conducting an active investigation regarding the cyber attack. At the same time, the founder of Barstool Sports denied any involvement in the dissemination of the damaging rumors, indicating that their editors chose not to engage with the story due to concerns about its legitimacy.
Support from Loved Ones
To top it off, Mary Kate’s boyfriend, Evan Solis, has also come to her defense, denouncing the false accusations and labeled the spread of misinformation as utterly damaging. Both Mary Kate and her father have emphasized the importance of raising awareness about cyber harassment, recognizing the emotional toll these situations can have on individuals and families alike.
A Community Rallying Together
The Cornett family’s ordeal shines a spotlight on a pressing issue in today’s society—cyber harassment. They hope to not only clear their name but also to support others who may find themselves in a similar position. As this story unfolds, it serves as a reminder for everyone to be cautious about the information circulated online and to verify facts before sharing. In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, understanding the responsibilities that come with it has never been more vital.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Harmontown Woman Charged with Cyberstalking
Additional Resources
- Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss Student Mary Kate Cornett’s Family Files Police Report
- People: Ole Miss Student Mary Kate Cornett’s Family Outraged by Viral Rumors
- New York Post: Boyfriend of Ole Miss Student Responds to Viral Rumor
- Rolling Stone: Ole Miss Student Mary Kate Cornett’s Statement
- Wikipedia: Cyberbullying
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.
