FBI names "swatting" as a new phenomenon

FEB 04 2008

The FBI published 'The New Phenomenon of Swatting', describing hoax 911 calls designed to trigger an armed police response at a victim's address. The bureau attributed the practice to phone-phreaking circles and noted the convicted offenders were motivated by bragging rights and ego rather than money. The term itself predates the notice, appearing on Urban Dictionary in December 2007.