Swatting Chaos: Colleges Race to Address False Active Shooter Alerts

Recent Hoaxes at Universities: Reports of active shooter incidents at four U.S. universities turned out to be hoaxes, causing panic among students and wasting emergency resources.

Impact of Swatting: The phenomenon known as "swatting," where false reports trigger heavy law enforcement responses, has surged, with over 800 incidents recorded in schools from January 2023 to June 2024.

Consequences of False Reports: Swatting not only disrupts communities but also diverts police resources from real emergencies, costing an estimated $82 million in 2023 alone.

Need for Stronger Measures: Experts advocate for stricter laws and improved technology to track swatters, emphasizing the need for federal recognition of swatting as a serious crime.