What is “swatting”?

The term applies to a new pranking trend that targets celebrities around Los Angeles. Pranksters call police to falsely report that a major crime is underway at some star’s home. Attempted kidnappings and shootings have been reported. Because they’re celebrities, there is usually a full tactical police response. “X Factor” judge Simon Cowell was swatted over the weekend. Other swatting victims include actor Ashton Kutcher and singers Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus.

Recommended Stories

Is ‘frontier intelligence’ a sustainable business strategy?

Don’t raise the ceiling without a plan

The Mahoning Valley came home, but it did not come back