VIGO COUNTY, Ind – The Vigo County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to parents and guardians of an internet hoax.

This hoax is delivered through various internet outlets and contains a sculpture like photo asking or advising children to harm themselves.

It’s also referred to as the “Momo Challenge”.

It started on the popular WhatsApp.

The “Momo game” or “Momo challenge” gained international recognition last summer and was initially considered a hoax, but quickly became a widespread meme.

In August 2018, law enforcement investigated the influence of Momo in the death of a 12-year-old in Argentina.

Momo encourages a participant to complete various tasks if they want to avoid being “cursed.” Some of the tasks include self harm, which Momo asks the participant to provide photographic evidence in order to continue the game.

Ultimately, the game ends with Momo telling the participant to take their own life and record it for social media.

Police remind you to monitor your children’s internet and video game usage and be aware of this hoax.

The original image of “Momo” is actually a sculpture called “Mother Bird” by Japanese artist Keisuke Aisawa