🔗 Share this article Secrecy Online is an Illusion’: Australian Teenager Charged Over Reported Active Shooter Prank in America A teenager from New South Wales has been charged following accusations he issuing several prank calls to 911 operators – an act known as “swatting calls” – wrongly stating active shooter situations were happening at prominent shopping and schools throughout the America. Global Investigation Leads to Legal Action AFP officers laid charges against the young male on 18 December. They claim he is part of a purported decentralised online crime network hiding behind keyboards in order to initiate an “rapid and significant emergency response”. “Frequently young males between the ages of 11 to 25, are involved in activities like swatting calls, doxxing and cyber attacks to gain status, notoriety and prestige in their online groups.” During the case, police seized a number of digital devices and a prohibited firearm located in the teen’s possession. This seizure was part of a joint police initiative established in late 2025. Law Enforcement Issue a Clear Message A senior AFP official, commenting broadly, warned that individuals believing they can commit crimes using technology and encrypted identities are being targeted. The AFP stated it launched its investigation upon receiving intelligence from the FBI. A senior FBI official, from the FBI's international wing, stated that the “hazardous and resource-draining act” of fake emergency calls endangered lives and wasted essential first responder resources. “This case shows that hidden identity in the digital realm is an myth,” he stated in a combined announcement alongside Australian police. He added, “We are dedicated to partnering with our Australian counterparts, our overseas colleagues, and industry experts to locate and bring to justice those who exploit the internet to create danger to society.” Court Proceedings The youth has been indicted on multiple counts of misuse of telecom services and a further count of unlawful ownership of a prohibited firearm. The accused could face up to fourteen years in jail. “The police's duty (is|remains) to stopping the harm and anguish members of such networks are imposing on society, operating under the false idea they are hidden,” the assistant commissioner said. The teenager was scheduled to face a New South Wales juvenile court on this week.