They’re bogus 911 calls with real consequences— and public figures or celebrities are often the victims. This week, 18-year-old activist David Hogg in Parkland and fellow #NeverAgain student leader Cameron Kasky in West Delray were targeted by swatting calls, according to authorities in Broward and Palm Beach counties. Named after the response by police SWAT squads who respond to the calls, false 911 callers often describe emergencies involving barricaded gunmen or hostages in an attempt to draw heavily-armed officers. These fake 911 callers often spoof a victim’s phone, making it appear as though the victim is placing the emergency call.
