Swatting scam at several Minnesota schools prompts message from BCA

In the wake of Wednesday’s reports of several “swatting” calls claiming false emergencies at Minnesota schools, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has this reminder:

“Our See it, say it, send it app, is an app that anyone can download to their phone, and it can report suspicious information, and it was designed through grants that we’ve received to disrupt threats to our schools,” The BCA’s Drew Evans said.

If you’re in an emergency situation, you should always call 911 first, then report the incident on the app.

City of Austin Police Chief McKichan said Wednesday that law enforcement does believe the incidents around the state were linked; Rochester Lourdes, Rochester Mayo, Mankato West, New Ulm and Cloquet also received similar calls.

McKichan indicated that the caller was likely not from the Austin community.

Similar incidents have occurred in several other states this week.

The Minnesota BCA is investigating Wednesday’s incidents, and the FBI is aware of the situation.

Reporting by Jason Brandt, and Minnesota News Network

We remind students and communities to notify local law enforcement and school resource officers about suspected threats to schools, and to contact the BCA through our See It Say It Send It app. Learn more and download the app: https://t.co/SvgekeuaM0. pic.twitter.com/ciW57UFP0m

— Minnesota BCA (@MnDPS_BCA) September 21, 2022