The article explores the alarming trend of swatting attacks targeting US universities, orchestrated by a hacker group known as Purgatory. Swatting, a dangerous prank involving false emergency reports to provoke armed police responses, has escalated into a serious cybersecurity and public safety issue. Purgatory, a notorious hacking collective, has exploited vulnerabilities in university systems to execute these attacks, causing significant disruption and fear on campuses. The piece delves into the methods used by Purgatory, the impact on affected institutions, and the broader implications for cybersecurity in educational environments. It also highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tracing and prosecuting perpetrators of swatting. The article underscores the need for enhanced security measures, awareness, and collaboration between universities and cybersecurity experts to mitigate such threats. This comprehensive analysis serves as a crucial resource for understanding the intersection of cybercrime and physical security risks in academic settings.
This Cyber News was published on www.wired.com. Publication date: Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:59:03 +0000