FBI steps in amid rash of politically charged swattings

The report highlights a rise in swatting incidents in the U.S. and the FBI’s awareness campaign addressing the threat, describing swatting as hoax emergency calls that provoke armed responses, sometimes with fatal outcomes. It cites recent high-profile cases, outlines current legal approaches in the U.S. and UK, and notes swatting’s use as a pressure tactic by criminals. The FBI’s recommended mitigations include minimizing online exposure of personal data, using strong unique passwords with MFA, carefully managing shared content, considering data removal services, planning with family, staying calm and compliant if swatted, and promptly reporting and preserving evidence.