-UPDATE #2- IN AN EMERGENCY EVERY SECOND COUNTS

Police Identify Individual Involved in “Swatting” Incidents

(HALDIMAND COUNTY) - Police have identified an individual involved in the recent swatting incidents in Haldimand County.

From September 2, 2025, to September 4, 2025, the Haldimand detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to several “swatting” incidents - hoax emergency calls designed to draw police to a location under false pretenses.

A local individual under the age of 18 has been identified as being involved, and investigators have established this person was victimized by being threatened and coerced into participating in these incidents.

During the course of the investigation, police uncovered the involvement of an emerging online group known as the “764” or “The Com”.  This movement is made up largely of youth who use intimidation and threats, including swatting and “doxing” (the release of personal information online), to manipulate and control vulnerable teenagers.

Unlike traditional cybercrime, these individuals are not motivated by money, but by peer recognition. Their tactics can escalate quickly, with the potential to cause severe emotional, physical, and psychological harm to their victims.

While no one was physically harmed, these calls diverted critical emergency resources and caused unnecessary alarm and stress within our community.

The investigation is continuing. No charges have been laid.

Why this matters to our community:

• Vulnerable youth are being targeted. The 764 group typically connects with teens through online gaming or social media platforms
• They use fear to control. Victims are threatened with swatting, exposure of personal information, or other forms of humiliation
• The risks are serious. Even when threats are hoaxes, they can lead to traumatic experiences for families, schools, and communities, and can push youth into dangerous or self-destructive behaviour

The OPP is urging parents, guardians, and caregivers to:

• Talk openly with their children about online safety and the risks of engaging with strangers on social media and gaming platforms
• Watch for warning signs such as sudden withdrawal, secrecy, unexplained injuries, or increased fear of police involvement
• Encourage children to come forward if they feel pressured, threatened, or unsafe online
• Report suspicious or threatening behaviour immediately to police

Quote:

“Swatting is not a prank - it’s a crime that puts lives at risk and traumatizes young people. The 764 movement is a dangerous group that exploits vulnerable kids in our communities. We want families to be aware, to talk with their children, and to help us prevent these crimes from taking root here in Ontario.” - Inspector Andrew Fox, Haldimand County OPP Detachment Commander.

The OPP will continue to work with our policing and intelligence partners across Canada and internationally to address these threats. Community awareness is one of the most effective tools in protecting our young people from becoming victims.