[fr_freak]

Searching a house that has had two 911 hangups is ok.

I disagree, because it is obvious that the 911 system has been compromised. If the 911 system were a secure, infallible system, then it might justify probable cause, but since it is so easily hacked, as we see with the various "swatting" incidents, it should no longer be considered reliable. Either secure the system, or toss it.

[Persevero]

I think it is reasonably secure, as they can trace the source of the call, and prosecute those who do fake calls.

What’s the alternative? No one can call the police? Calls can be faked without 911, you know, just call the police in a normal fashion. Should the cops ignore those calls, too?

[oh8eleven]

but since it is so easily hacked, as we see with the various "swatting" incidents, it should no longer be considered reliable. Either secure the system, or toss it.
Swatting is not hacking ... and just what would you replace the current system with that is so much better?

[Neidermeyer]

but since it is so easily hacked, as we see with the various “swatting” incidents, it should no longer be considered reliable. Either secure the system, or toss it.
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Absolutely ,, caller-id info can be very easily spoofed ... I would require that centers receiving 911 calls have PBX equipment that can actually determine the originating number rather than rely on the transmitted data. This failure is an open invitation to barge into any residence or building ... you can bet some agency is going to use this opening to get into areas they can’t get a warrant for.

http://www.ehow.com/how_5128156_spoof-caller-id.html