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Swatting Incidents Surge: Over 800 Threats in Schools

8/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Swatting incidents at U.S. schools exceeded 800 from January 2023 to June 2024, driven by new technology enabling anonymous threats.
Offenders frequently advertise swatting services on social media for as low as $40.
Experts recommend police verify threats prior to responding to minimize swatters' desired large-scale reactions.
The FBI reports a rise in swatting events at the beginning of college semesters, advising student vigilance.

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Story summary

Swatting incidents at U.S. schools exceeded 800 from January 2023 to June 2024, driven by new technology enabling anonymous threats.
Offenders frequently advertise swatting services on social media for as low as $40.
Experts recommend police verify threats prior to responding to minimize swatters' desired large-scale reactions.
The FBI reports a rise in swatting events at the beginning of college semesters, advising student vigilance.