Several U.S. colleges have experienced disruptive hoaxes involving false reports of active shooters as the fall semester begins, triggering lockdowns and heightened law enforcement responses. These 'swatting calls' strain campus safety resources and heighten student anxiety. Concurrently, universities like Ohio State have imposed restrictions on dormitory decorations and programming themes to comply with state laws limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, aiming to maintain an environment free from content deemed potentially offensive. These measures have sparked student backlash and debate about balancing safety, inclusivity, and free expression on campuses.