Overview
- At least 19 universities reported false active‑shooter calls since Aug. 19, prompting multi‑agency responses, campus lockdowns and, in one case, minor injuries during evacuations.
- Anti‑extremism researchers from GPAHE and independent analysts shared screenshots and call audio linking many incidents to an online group called Purgatory within a broader network known as The Com.
- A new CIS/ISD analysis says Purgatory members very likely made hoax reports at a minimum of 10 universities, often using Google Voice and staged gunshot sounds to heighten urgency.
- A self‑identified Purgatory figure using the handle Gores claimed responsibility in messages and to Wired, while posts advertised swatting‑for‑hire services priced roughly $20 to $95.
- The FBI acknowledges an uptick in swatting, is coordinating with local agencies, and has not publicly confirmed attribution, as universities boost security and note serious legal penalties for offenders.