Social Media Fuels Easy Access to Illegal Drugs in Wales: Investigation Reveals

A recent investigation by WalesOnline has revealed the alarming ease with which illegal drugs and harmful substances can be purchased online in Wales. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Telegram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp are being used by anonymous accounts to openly advertise and sell drugs, with some even offering same-day delivery. This trend has raised concerns among experts working with young people, who say it's making it easier for them to access drugs without fully understanding the risks involved. Sarah Langford, head of children and young people services at Adferiad, highlighted the accessibility of drugs online, stating, "It's incredibly easy for them to use social media. We've got young people who have used Telegram in the past, Snapchat as well. WhatsApp is another platform that they use." She added that young people are often unaware of the potential dangers associated with buying drugs online, including the risk of exploitation and the lack of information about the substances' origins and potential harm. The investigation found numerous accounts on social media platforms offering a wide range of drugs, including cocaine, cannabis, THC vapes, and LSD, with some even linking to professional-looking websites with detailed descriptions of the products and payment options. While social media companies have policies against the sale of drugs, experts believe more needs to be done to prevent these activities from taking place on their platforms. Law enforcement agencies are also facing challenges in tackling this issue, as many sellers operate anonymously and are often located outside of the UK. The Online Safety Act, which is being implemented this year, aims to place more responsibility on social media companies to remove harmful content, including drug sales. However, experts caution that young people are adept at finding ways around these measures, making it crucial for parents to be vigilant about their children's online activity and to educate them about the risks associated with drug use.