Police Treat Threatening Emails to Hundreds of UK Schools as Hoaxes

Police in Scotland and Northern Ireland are treating threatening emails sent to hundreds of schools on Wednesday as hoaxes, with investigators saying they have found no credible threat to the public.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland said more than 300 schools had reported receiving the same message. Checks had not uncovered anything untoward, and police said the email originated outside the United Kingdom.

Assistant Chief Constable Anthony McNally said the investigation was continuing, but officers considered the risk to the public low. Police were working with the Department of Education and the Education Authority to reassure affected schools, pupils and parents.

Police Scotland said threatening messages had been sent widely to school distribution lists across the UK and Northern Ireland. Officers assessed the messages immediately and said there was nothing to suggest a credible threat or any wider danger to the public.

The force said schools did not need to evacuate or keep children away from education solely because of the emails. Its Cyber and Fraud Unit is investigating the source of the messages and working with law enforcement partners in the UK and abroad.

Police acknowledged the anxiety such messages can cause for children, families and school staff. Northern Ireland officers urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity while enquiries continue.