A cybercriminal group known as “Purgatory” has been identified as the source behind a coordinated wave of AI-enhanced swatting calls that triggered lockdowns and armed police responses at universities across the United States in late August. The attacks, which occurred from August 21 to August 25, affected at least 10 major campuses, including the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, Villanova, the University of South Carolina, and UNC-Chapel Hill.
Using artificial intelligence to simulate realistic sounds—such as screaming and gunfire—Purgatory’s false reports were designed to appear credible, sending panic through campuses and prompting responses from both local and federal law enforcement. Authorities later confirmed the threats were fabricated after clearing buildings and finding no evidence of active shooters.
Investigators from the Center for Internet Security and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue linked the calls to Purgatory, a group operating primarily on Telegram and Discord. The organization is tied to a larger network known as “The Com” (short for “The Community”), a known hub for swatting, sextortion, and trafficking in child exploitation material. The FBI previously issued a warning about The Com’s escalating capabilities and criminal sophistication.
Swatting calls by Purgatory are sometimes paid-for services, with rates as low as $20. A report by Wired indicated that one Purgatory leader earned up to $100,000 from these dangerous hoaxes. The motives vary—from financial gain to notoriety and recruitment, or simply the thrill of causing chaos.
During the August 25 incident at the University of Arkansas, the caller claimed to be inside the school’s Mullins Library with an armed man. Assistant Police Chief Matt Mills described how dispatchers heard gunfire sounds in the background. The scene was cleared and deemed a hoax, but not before sparking fear and confusion across the campus.
Authorities say that earlier this year, several Purgatory members—including two 18-year-olds—pleaded guilty to swatting-related crimes. One had previously been listed on the FBI’s Most Wanted List.
The incident highlights the growing dangers of AI-enabled cybercrime. Law enforcement agencies are continuing to investigate, warning that groups like Purgatory represent a serious hybrid threat, merging digital deception with real-world consequences.
