Targeted by Threats or Swatting? Here’s What to Do
Threatening phone calls, swatting attacks, or doxxing attempts are terrifying — and increasingly used to target Jewish individuals, families, synagogues, and schools. This guide will help you respond quickly, document everything, and report through the right channels.
🔹 Immediate Actions (Step 1)
- If you’re in immediate danger or facing a fake emergency call (swatting):
Call 911 immediately. Stay calm. Cooperate fully with first responders. - If the threat was digital (e.g., via email, text, DMs):
Do not engage. Take screenshots, log the sender, and record timestamps. - If you’re in a shared space (synagogue, apartment building, school):
Notify security, property managers, and local leadership immediately.
🔹 Step 2: Document Everything
- Save all communication: screenshots, voicemails, IP logs, usernames
- Record the time and method of the threat (e.g., “anonymous call from unknown number at 3:12PM”)
- Write down who was in the home or building at the time
- Report digital threats to CyberWell for real-time monitoring
- Full documentation guide
🔹 Step 3: Notify Law Enforcement & Watchlists
- File with your local police department, and request a bias incident report number
- Submit to the FBI
- File a DOJ Civil Rights Complaint
- If part of a pattern or campaign, submit to SCN
🔹 Step 4: Secure Your Digital Life
- Follow the Digital Defense Guide to protect your data, accounts, and personal info
- Lock down your social media privacy settings
- Remove your personal info from data brokers (guide coming soon)