Rapper Nicki Minaj found herself on the receiving end of a prank that is becoming increasingly more common. According to TMZ, the Sherriff’s Department handling the case received a report earlier this month that falsely claimed the rapper’s son was being abused. Another call reported Minaj’s Los Angeles area home was on fire.
When sheriff’s deputies arrived at the Minaj estate to look into the child abuse claim, it was determined there was no abuse. According to TMZ, sources say deputies chalked the incident up to it being a swatting call. Officers stress that these calls are a waste of their time and resources.
Unfortunately, another call came in that same night to report that her home was on fire; another lie authorities say. According to TMZ, a source close to the rapper says she isn’t letting these episodes go. The Vanguard Award winner has lawyered up to ensure that whoever is responsible for the swatting is exposed and held accountable.
Minaj isn’t the only celebrity to deal with swatting calls. YouTuber Adin Ross and influencer Madison Beer have also faced similar situations.
The Dangers of Swatting
According to CSO Online, swatting is a form of harassment in which attackers try to trick police forces into sending a heavily armed strike force, particularly S.W.A.T., to a victim’s home or business. Swatting is a growing problem for cops nationwide, with hundreds of cases reported yearly.
Swatting has also become a growing concern for schools across the country. According to the Associated Press, since early June, officials have identified swatting calls to about 250 colleges and universities, 100 high schools, and several junior high schools. The calls included false claims of explosive devices on campuses or school shootings.
The FBI released a statement that the agency was monitoring the situation.
“While we have no information to indicate a specific and credible threat, we will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to gather, share, and act upon threat information as it comes to our attention,” the statement said.
The false calls have caused several lockdowns and evacuations in several counties across the nation.