Federal authorities are looking into the source of racist mass text messages sent to Black people – including children – across America this week. The anonymously sent hateful messages, which were reported in multiple states,

The FBI is investigating racist text messages sent this week to Black college students nationwide, including students from at least four South Carolina schools. The federal law enforcement agency issued a statement Thursday saying it “is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter.

Racist text messages invoking slavery raised alarm across the country this week after they were sent to Black men, women and students, including middle schoolers, prompting inquiries by the FBI and other agencies.

IU students get racist text messages referencing slavery and plantation assignments