Crime
Coast Guard Warns Of Surge In False, Hoax Distress Calls In Great Lakes Region
The U.S. Coast Guard said its Great Lakes District has received nearly 200 false distress calls since January, including three confirmed hoaxes.
The Coast Guard said it is “raising awareness of the dangers and penalties associated with hoax distress calls” after watchstanders in the Great Lakes District received 187 false distress calls since January 2026. The calls were transmitted by radio, phone, and on social media.
While some false distress calls may arise from a misunderstanding or change in conditions, three have been confirmed to be hoaxes, meaning the false distress messages were “knowingly and willfully” communicated.
“Intentionally misleading emergency responders is both dangerous and illegal,” said Capt. Mark Kuperman, chief of staff, Great Lakes District. “Every false distress report creates a ripple effect across the entire emergency response community, draining valuable time and resources from the Coast Guard and agency partners, and potentially putting emergency responders at unnecessary risk. Ultimately, this reduces our readiness for actual emergencies. This can be especially detrimental during the summer months, when resources are in constant demand.”
Knowingly initiating a hoax call or causing the Coast Guard to attempt rescue when there is no emergency is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a monetary fine. The civil penalty includes a fine of up to $13,295 plus liability for all costs incurred to the Coast Guard as a result.
The Coast Guard is also warning against sharing content on social media that “falsely portrays an emergency.”
“The growing influence of social media has added further challenges to search and rescue operations,” said Roger Rice, search and rescue program manager, Great Lakes District. “Social media content suggesting distress may not include critical details, such as an accurate location, the number of people involved, or immediate hazards. Misleading photos or videos may unnecessarily trigger emergency responses and divert critical resources.”
Boaters are advised to use VHF-FM channel 16 or 911 in real emergencies.
