swatting meaning and definition

SWATTING noun

Definition of swatting (noun)

1. A dangerous prank in which a person makes a false report to emergency services in an attempt to dispatch a large number of armed police officers or a SWAT team to a particular address.
   • "The unsuspecting streamer was the victim of swatting, which led to a sudden, frightening police raid during his live broadcast."
   • "Swatting is not only dangerous for those targeted, but it also misuses vital emergency resources."
   • "Because of the potentially deadly consequences, swatting is a serious crime and perpetrators can face severe penalties."