Iowa school districts have been the target of several "swatting calls" referencing an alleged active shooter on or near the schools' campus. Officials estimate that approximately 30 calls were received by local law enforcement agencies.
A “swatting call” refers to a false claim intended to trigger an immediate and widespread law enforcement deployment or emergency service response to a specific location. Hoax reports such as the ones experienced today commonly consist of claims of serious violent attacks, such as a bomb threat, active shooter and/or a hostage situation. Swatting has also been used as an intimidation tactic against individuals and businesses.