Frances Carmona, who lives in Grand Rapids, said her 15-year-old niece was one of the recipients of a spam-like text that appears to be targeting people of color across the nation.

“Greetings! You have been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation,” the message read. “PLEASE be ready by 12 am November 15, 2024! NO EXCEPTIONS !! Bring all of your belongs our Exclusive slaves will be there by 11:45 to pick you up in a Large Brown van, Be prepared to get searched and patted down once inside of the plantation A 1st cabin to your right ! -Thank you.”

“Please note that anyone who runs away or doesn’t show up will be killed,” a second text followed.