Rep. Brandon Williams, R-N.Y., highlighted the role of technology in combating the rising swatting incidents that have affected politicians from both sides of the political spectrum. Swatting involves making false emergency calls to prompt a police response at the victim’s residence.
Williams discussed three key measures to address swatting incidents during an interview on “National Report.” Drawing on his background in the technology industry, he emphasized the importance of real-time authenticity verification for incoming calls. Calls originating from a local telecom network may be deemed more reliable than those coming via voice over IP (Internet Protocol) over the Internet, which can lack traceability and pertinent information.
Secondly, Williams proposed tagging various locations prone to swatting incidents, such as homes, schools, synagogues, churches, judges, law enforcement officials, and elected officials, within the system. This tagging mechanism would ensure that authorities have a designated point of contact and are aware of potential swatting targets.
Lastly, he called for the development of improved forensic tools to investigate the origins of swatting calls. Many swatting incidents involve calls from overseas using voice over IP and other Internet technologies to conceal their source.
Williams shared his personal experience with a swatting incident that occurred at his home on Christmas Day. He received a call from the local sheriff reporting a shooting at his residence and subsequently cooperated with law enforcement to ensure his family’s safety. Williams appreciated the swift response and proactive communication from law enforcement, preventing the incident from escalating into a crisis.
In a social media post, Williams expressed his belief that the perpetrators behind swatting incidents hope that police might inadvertently harm him and his family.
