Picture courtesy of NBC News

An Australian teenager faces charges for allegedly making hoax calls about mass shootings in the US. According to Australian police and the FBI, the suspect was part of an anonymous online crime network responsible for "swatting" numerous US educational institutions and retailers. This activity caused widespread panic and significant financial impacts across the country.

The teenager, who is set to appear in an Australian court, has not been publicly named due to legal restrictions. Acting Assistant Commissioner Graeme Marshall of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) stated that the hoax calls led to alarm among thousands, disrupting businesses and services in the US. The activity, known as "swatting," involves making false reports to prompt emergency responses.

The AFP launched a task force to aid the investigation. A recent search in New South Wales revealed several electronic devices and a firearm associated with the suspect. The teenager faces 12 charges for using telecommunications to commit a serious offence and one charge of unauthorised firearm possession. If convicted, these charges could result in significant prison time.

Experts, including Jason A. Kaplan from the FBI, assert that swatting poses serious risks by diverting essential emergency services and creating dangerous situations. Kaplan emphasised the importance of collaborating with international partners to address these crimes, noting that online anonymity is often misleading.

Looking ahead, the case demonstrates ongoing efforts between the US and Australian authorities to combat online crime. Both nations remain committed to joining forces to prevent similar incidents, maintaining cooperative ties as stressed by Erika Olson of the US Embassy in Canberra, reported NBC News.

Key Takeaways:

• An Australian teen charged for false US shooting threats through “swatting.”

• The investigation involved US-Australian cooperation, with devices and a firearm found.

• Swatting is a growing issue, with experts warning of its dangers and online anonymity challenges.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBC News 2026-01-14

 

 

Jail time in Oz, then jail time in the USA. Hope this case gets very wide media attention around the world so that it might dissuade idiot teens from repeating.