Drugs on the Internet
Even though the internet is a daily place for communication and interaction for many people, just like in real life, there are also contents and offers online that can seriously endanger your life or the lives of others.
You may have already come across content on Instagram, TikTok, or similar platforms that seemed strange to you, or even content that glorifies the sale, use, or display of drugs. Even though this content may initially appear harmless, approximately 2,137 people died in Germany in 2024 as a result of consuming illegal drugs (Statista: Number of drug-related deaths in Germany from 2000 to 2024). For this reason, it is important that everyone is aware of how harmful drugs are and how much damage they can cause – not only to individuals, but sometimes to entire families. In the following article, you will learn about the presence of drugs in the “digital age” and how they have become a regular part of many people’s feeds – making it increasingly difficult to avoid encountering drugs.
What Does “Drugs on the Internet” Actually Mean?
“Drugs on the internet” refers to content, contacts, or offers related to the use, sale, or distribution of drugs. This usually includes:
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Social media posts that portray drug use or dealing as “cool”
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Messages from strangers who want to sell you drugs – emojis are often used as code words
Example: “Yo bro, I’ve got some 🥦 here. If you want some…”
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Groups or chats where drugs are sold
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Websites or platforms that offer illegal substances
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Videos or content from influencers that glorify drug use
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Advertising for “legal highs” or vapes whose ingredients are unclear (often imported from non-EU countries)
Why Do You Encounter Drugs on the Internet at All?
For many people, the internet provides a safe place where they can communicate and interact with friends or acquaintances. According to statistics, most buyers of illegal substances are young adults, but unfortunately, a significant number of teenagers are also among them, simply wanting to try something “new.” Criminals exploit the naivety of these people in order to make a profit. Victims do not necessarily have to actively search for drugs – such content can simply appear in their feeds.
This gives criminals the opportunity to:
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Find new buyers
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Portray drugs as harmless or “normal”
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Build trust
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Approach people in chats and groups
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Exploit uncertainty, curiosity, and peer pressure
How Can I Protect Myself Against This?
You should always be aware of the risks you expose yourself to when consuming drugs – every day could be your last. You never know what active substances are contained in illegal drugs. Many drugs can affect you physically and psychologically for the rest of your life. This can include depression, anxiety, and, most importantly, addiction.
It is therefore particularly important not to let yourself be influenced by people who downplay drug use or try to make it seem “cool.” Drugs do not offer any real benefit or advantage for your life!
What Can You Do If You Come Across This Kind of Content?
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Most importantly: Do not let anyone pressure you – you alone make decisions about yourself, and you do not have to prove anything to anyone.
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Do not engage with drug-related content that appears on social media. The less attention a post receives, the less likely it is to be shown to other people.
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Important to know: Content that glorifies drugs often violates platform guidelines or German laws. If you come across such content, report the content using the reporting form on our website. Blocking the account and selecting “Not interested” gives the account even less attention and significantly reduces the likelihood that similar content will be shown to you again.
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There is nothing wrong with asking for help. The German Red Cross (DRK) offers addiction and drug counseling for people affected as well as anyone looking for information. There is nothing to be ashamed of.
