Social media threats of creepy clowns harming students and teachers are leading school districts to take extra security precautions.

The threats, deemed a hoax, have been made in areas across the U.S. and most recently, in Texas.

Both Port Arthur and Beaumont independent school districts have issued statements regarding the threat.

“Attention parents: We have been on standby throughout the night concerning the online threats to local high schools and continue to be in contact with the PAPD as well as fellow Superintendents whose schools were listed as targets,” according to the post made by PAISD. “Memorial High School will be open today (Monday) and heightened security will be on campus. We understand your angst, but ensure you that we will continue to keep your children safe and encourage you to still send them to school.”

The district urges students to be aware of their surroundings and alert campus administrators or authorities on hand should they see anything suspicious.

“The safety and security of all students and staff are our No. 1 priority. We will continue to monitor this situation heavily and keep you informed should we receive any further information,” the post read.

BISD’s statement alluded to the social media hoax made toward school districts where people in clown costumes would harm students or teachers.

“This hoax has also circulated among school districts across the country. Several students (not from the area) have been arrested in connection to this threat.  We are taking extra security precautions at all of our campuses,” according to the BISD post. “As you are aware, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. The Beaumont ISD Police Department is monitoring the situation and has been in contact with local law enforcement. Be assured that the school district and local police will continue to monitor this matter. Thank you for your continued support.”

According to Click2Houston’s website, Spring and Alvin ISD’s and Goose Creek Consolidated ISD called in extra security to be on the safe side.

Klein ISD, Sheldon ISD as well as districts in Corpus Christi have also been made aware of the threats/hoax’s.

The Wichita Eagle, a Kansas newspaper, wrote that “a juvenile was arrested on suspicion of making criminal threats against schools on social media as part of a creepy clown phenomenon.”

The social media threats are seemingly connected to a rash of people dressing as clowns and trying to scare others.