The 'SCP: Wish I Knew' meme draws inspiration from the massive SCP Foundation collaborative fiction universe, specifically focusing on the theme of forbidden or hazardous knowledge. The template often features tactical responders or researchers reflecting on the consequences of interacting with 'Keter' class anomalies or 'Cognitohazards'—information that harms the viewer just by being known. It gained traction in circles like r/SCP and TikTok, where users pair somber or dramatic imagery from fan films like 'SCP: Overlord' with text expressing regret over discovering certain secrets. This format perfectly captures the 'curiosity killed the cat' vibe that permeates the horror-sci-fi lore of the Foundation.