The group that’s been swatting U.S. universities

A self-proclaimed leader of an online group linked to the violent extremist network The Com said he is responsible for the flurry of hoax active-shooter alerts at universities across the U.S. in recent days as students return to school.

Known online as Gores, the person says he co-leads a group called Purgatory, which is offering its followers a menu of services, including hoax threats against schools — known as swatting — for just $20, while faked threats against hospitals, businesses, and airports can cost up to $50.

The group also offered “slashings” and “brickings” for as little as $10, according to a review of the group’s Telegram channel by WIRED, apparently referencing real-world violence.

Read more at Wired