The 'Stop Right There, Criminal Scum!' meme originates from the 2006 action role-playing game The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, developed by Bethesda Game Studios. In the game, Imperial Guards shout this line with dramatic intensity whenever they catch the player committing even the smallest crime, such as picking up a low-value item by accident. The phrase became a staple of internet culture due to its aggressive voice acting and the absurdity of being treated like a dangerous criminal for minor offenses. Today, it is used to humorously confront people who have violated social norms or made a relatable mistake, often accompanied by the guard's zoomed-in, low-resolution face.