COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – South Carolina’s attorney general said an “online teen crime group” is behind a string of active shooter hoax calls at universities around the country, including the University of South Carolina.

Attorney General Alan Wilson put the blame for the August 24 swatting incident at USC on an online group called “Purgatory.”

A person claiming to be leader of that group recently spoke with WIRED.com and claimed the group made thousands of dollars from the swatting spree.

“I’ve spoken to USC President Michael Amiridis, and he has my full support to do what is necessary to protect our students and keep our campuses safe,” said Wilson. “I will continue to warn young people and parents about the dangers of these online criminal groups.”

Wilson also said the group was linked to other groups which manipulate minors into self harm and direct, produce, and distribute child sexual abuse material.

He also warned parents to be on alert for behavior which could indicate that they are participating or are a victim of these online groups.