Ads seen by one in four young people

Research by advocacy organisation Volteface has revealed one in four young people in the UK have seen drugs advertised for sale on social media.

Among the group of 16 to 24-year-olds surveyed, cannabis was the most commonly seen substance for sale, with 63% reporting seeing it advertised.

Cocaine was the second drug most commonly seen advertised (26%), followed by MDMA and then prescription painkillers and antianxiety medication.

The majority, 72%, said they see illegal drugs for sale on social media at least once a month.

A spokesperson for Volteface, pointed out “worrying” figures which showed 36% of young people were not concerned by the sales, jumping to 48% among under-18s.

T he spokesperson said “innovative approaches” are needed to tackle the problem.

“Social media is providing drug dealers with easy to use and familiar platforms to find and build trust with customers, advertise their business, and disguise their activities,” they added.

The research showed dealers will typically advertise their drugs by posting videos, photos and statuses on to their social media, showing what drugs they have available, the price and quantity, and notifying users when they are open for business.

Buyers then contact the dealers by either commenting on their posts or contac ting privately via a direct messaging function.

Drugs could be exchanged in person or by post.

Built-in features have also helped dealers to expand their businesses. The ‘search bar’ and ‘suggested friends’ functions allow dealers to be suggested to new potential buyers. ”