Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for misinformation, especially during times of uncertainty. Recent concerns about potential government disruptions have created a perfect storm for rumors to spread faster than wildfire. Walmart, America’s largest retailer, found itself at the center of viral false claims that threatened to cause unnecessary panic among millions of shoppers.
Walmart Refutes Viral Store Closure Claims
Walmart has firmly denied viral social media rumors falsely claiming the retail giant plans to close stores amid looting threats tied to a possible lapse in federal food assistance funding. The company emphasized that it has no plans to close any stores and will remain open for business as usual.
The retail chain made it clear that they did not announce any plans to close stores and lock their doors on November 1. A Walmart spokesperson confirmed by phone that the chain will be open for business on that date.
False Claims Spread Rapidly on TikTok
The rumors have spread widely across TikTok amid concerns about potential federal program disruptions and threatens to disrupt federal programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food aid to more than 40 million Americans. One viral video, posted on two platforms, collectively received more than 1 million views.
TikTok user @uncutrealness posted a video promoting this claim on October 22. The video’s caption referenced SNAP, reading “Walmart said y’all can SNAP from the parking lot this time.” In the video, the user claimed that Walmart said the doors would be locked, with only employees allowed inside, and suggested the company was thinking about closing doors on November 1 to allow only online food and grocery orders.
Viral Misinformation and Public Reaction
The TikTok video claimed that “the brokies made a threat towards Walmart” and said that if the government shuts off SNAP benefits, people would go straight to Walmart to get everything they need. The user alleged that every Walmart now has a police officer on standby and they’re thinking about not opening doors until the situation passes.
Another user posted a video viewed nearly 250,000 times that claimed customers would be required to shop exclusively online. The user stated that “Mr. Wally World said you are not coming into his establishment” and “You are not gonna be destroying his lovely business.”
TikTok Responds to False Narratives
TikTok took down the videos because they breached its Community Guidelines, which ban the spread of misinformation that could cause serious harm to individuals or society. The social media platform also introduced measures within its search function to reduce the visibility of similarly false content.
The rumors come as law enforcement officials in New York said Walmart and other grocery stores have been the target of threats of mass looting linked to the potential halt in SNAP benefits. However, these threats appear to be largely based on the viral misinformation itself rather than any credible organized planning.
Walmart Reassures Customers Amid Uncertainty
Reaffirming its stance, Walmart told FOX Business that the viral posts are “entirely false” and that the company remains committed to serving customers both in stores and online. The retailer continues to accept SNAP EBT cards in-store and online, with customers who use SNAP benefits able to continue shopping at Walmart as usual. Walmart’s payment systems, customer service operations, and online ordering platforms all continue to support EBT transactions.
A potential shutdown could halt about $8 billion a month in federal food assistance, money that usually flows straight into grocery stores and big-box retailers. Walmart captures 24% of all SNAP shopper spending. Despite this significant financial impact, the company has made no announcements about altering its operations or store hours in response to the SNAP benefit situation.
