Privacy Online is an Falsehood’: Australian Youth Charged Over Reported Mass Shooting False Report in America
An adolescent from New South Wales has been charged for purportedly issuing several prank calls to first responders – a practice called “SWATting” – wrongly stating mass shootings were happening at major retail and schools in the United States.
Global Probe Leads to Legal Action
AFP officers charged the teenager on 18 December. They claim he is a member of a purported decentralised online crime network concealed by anonymous accounts in order to prompt an “rapid and large-scale emergency response”.
“Frequently young males ranging in age from 11 to 25, are participating in crime types including swatting, doxing and computer intrusion to earn credibility, notoriety and recognition in their online groups.”
In connection with the case, officers confiscated several electronic devices and a banned gun found in the juvenile’s custody. This operation was part of Taskforce Pompilid established in October 2025.
Officials Provide a Stark Warning
An acting assistant commissioner, issuing a warning, cautioned that people believing they can carry out offenses with an internet connection and encrypted identities were on notice.
The AFP confirmed it began its investigation following intelligence from American law enforcement.
A senior FBI official, from the FBI's international wing, stated that the “dangerous and disruptive offense” of hoax 911 calls put lives at risk and wasted critical public safety assets.
“This investigation shows that hidden identity online is an illusion,” he commented in a combined announcement with authorities.
He continued, “We are committed to partnering with international partners, our overseas colleagues, and private sector partners to locate and bring to justice people who abuse digital tools to cause harm to society.”
Legal Next Steps
The accused has been indicted on 12 counts of communications-related crimes and a further count of unauthorised possession of a prohibited firearm. The accused potentially faces up to 14 years in prison.
“The police's duty (is|remains) to halting the distress and pain participants of such networks are causing to the public, under the mistaken belief they are anonymous,” Marshall said.
The teenager was scheduled to face a NSW juvenile court on Tuesday.