Emma Amit, a 51-year-old influencer, tragically passed away in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, after consuming a highly toxic 'devil crab' while taking part in a popular social media challenge. The incident occurred on February 4, when Amit and her friends went to gather seafood in a nearby mangrove, where she filmed herself cooking various marine products, including the toxic crustacean, in coconut milk. The video gained significant attention with nearly 39,000 views and extensive reactions and comments from viewers, highlighting the dangerous trend associated with viral challenges.

Local authorities issued an urgent alert to coastal residents following the incident, stressing the dangers of ingesting the 'devil crab,' a species recognized for its toxicity. Although such challenges can often be perceived as harmless fun, they can lead to severe consequences, as demonstrated by Amit's demise. Reports indicate that after sharing the video, she began exhibiting severe symptoms, including convulsions, just a day later, underscoring the health risks posed by unregulated viral challenges.

The response from communities and health officials points to a growing concern over the influence of social media on public behavior, particularly among younger audiences drawn to viral challenges without understanding the potential hazards. Authorities emphasize the need for heightened awareness and education around the consumption of toxic marine species, especially in regions where such dangers may not be well-known. This tragic event serves as a crucial reminder of the potential consequences that can arise from reckless social media trends.