A teenage boy from regional New South Wales has been charged with a series of serious offences following an international investigation into hoax 'swatting' calls made to American emergency services.
International Investigation Uncovers Alleged Hoax Campaign
The case began in October 2025 when the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tipped off the Australian Federal Police (AFP). The intelligence suggested an Australian was part of a decentralised online crime network involved in 'swatting'. This term refers to the malicious act of making false reports to emergency services to trigger a large-scale, armed police response, often targeting an unsuspecting individual.
The AFP alleges the boy, who cannot be named due to his age, made multiple calls to US authorities. He falsely claimed that mass shootings were occurring at major retail outlets and educational institutions across the United States.
Police Raid and Serious Charges Laid
Acting on the intelligence, AFP officers executed a search warrant at a home in regional New South Wales on December 18. During the search, police seized several electronic devices and, notably, a prohibited firearm.
The minor was subsequently charged with 12 counts of using a telecommunications network with intent to commit a serious offence, specifically conveying false information about danger. Each of these charges carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
He was also charged with one count of unauthorised possession of a prohibited firearm, an offence that can result in up to 14 years behind bars. The boy faced a NSW Children's Court on Tuesday following the charges.
Global Impact and a Warning to Online Perpetrators
AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Graeme Marshall stated the alleged actions had severe real-world consequences. "A young boy from regional NSW allegedly caused widespread alarm and turmoil to thousands of people, businesses and services in the United States, resulting in significant financial implications," he said.
He linked the case to the AFP's Taskforce Pompilid, which targets online crime networks. "These perpetrators, often young males aged from 11 to 25, are engaging in crime types such as swatting, doxxing and hacking to achieve status, notoriety and recognition in their online groups," Marshall explained.
FBI International Operations Division Assistant Director Jason Kaplan emphasised the dangers of swatting. "The FBI views swatting as a dangerous and disruptive crime that endangers lives and drains critical emergency resources," he stated. He added that the arrest proves "anonymity online is an illusion".
The cooperation was praised by US Embassy Canberra Chargé d'Affaires Erika Olson, who highlighted the role of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance in preventing harm to citizens.
The AFP advises parents concerned about their children's online activity to maintain open conversations, supervise online behaviour, and seek professional help if needed.
