False Shooter Hoaxes Trigger Lockdowns Across Multiple U.S. College Campuses

In 2025, U.S. college campuses have been plagued by a significant rise in false active shooter threats, known as swatting, causing widespread fear and disruption across numerous universities including Alabama State University, Barco Law School, Villanova University, and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. These hoaxes, often clustered and sometimes linked to an anonymous online group called Purgatory, have led to lockdowns, emergency responses, and heightened trauma among students, who experience panic and anxiety akin to real threats. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, are actively investigating these incidents due to their severe impact on safety resources and educational environments. Universities have been refining their emergency protocols to respond swiftly and effectively to credible threats while grappling with the challenge of distinguishing hoaxes from genuine emergencies. The surge in swatting incidents has increased by over 500% since 2018-2019, highlighting a troubling national trend that undermines campus security and student well-being. Students and safety officials emphasize the profound psychological toll and the importance of treating every threat seriously to maintain vigilance and preparedness.