A teenager from NSW has been charged for purportedly issuing several false reports to emergency services – a tactic called “swatting” – wrongly stating gun violence incidents were happening at large commercial and schools in the US.
International Probe Leads to Legal Action
The Australian federal police laid charges against the teenager on 18 December. Authorities allege he is a member of an alleged decentralised online network of offenders concealed by anonymous accounts in order to trigger an “rapid and major police response”.
“Commonly young males aged from 11 to 25, are participating in activities such as swatting, doxing and cyber attacks to gain status, infamy and recognition in their online groups.”
As part of the probe, police seized several electronic devices and an illegal weapon located in the teen’s home. This action was executed by a joint police initiative formed in October 2025.
Authorities Provide a Clear Message
A senior AFP official, commenting broadly, cautioned that those operating under the illusion they can commit crimes using technology and encrypted identities are being targeted.
Australian police said it began its inquiry upon receiving information from the FBI.
A senior FBI official, from the global operations unit, stated that the “risky and disruptive act” of false reports threatened public safety and consumed vital public safety assets.
“This investigation demonstrates that hidden identity on the internet is an illusion,” he said in a shared press release with authorities.
He continued, “We are dedicated to collaborating with the AFP, our overseas colleagues, and private sector partners to find and prosecute individuals that exploit digital tools to inflict damage to society.”
Legal Process
The accused has been indicted on 12 counts of communications-related crimes and one count of unlawful ownership of a banned gun. He potentially faces up to 14 years in jail.
“The police's duty (is|remains) to stopping the harm and pain members of these digital criminal groups are causing to the public, operating under the false idea they are anonymous,” the assistant commissioner said.
The teenager was set to be presented before a NSW juvenile court on this week.
