Understanding the Reality of Online Drug Purchases
On the other hand, as schooling was pushed online, more children have been spending more hours online, multiplying the opportunities to trade drugs and interact with people who will sell them drugs, and even deliver them directly to doorsteps in some cases. Now, we do not even have to leave the house to order a pizza or buy a pair of shoes. But while the web has made our lives more convenient, online shopping has also created potential legal problems. Now more than ever, companies are sending prescription drugs through the Internet and selling them to users illegally. This means that while you may think that purchasing drugs online is an easy way to get your prescription medicine, you could be asking for jail time.
Police are also unlikely to target people purchasing a small amount of drugs. They have larger fish to fry – like the sellers producing drugs and dealing them in the first place. The danger of online pharmacies is if a site does not ask you for a prescription from your doctor, you cannot not trust the source. Many pharmacies online offer cheaper rates, but you may not know where the manufacturing occurred, the standards of the manufacturing, shipping from international countries could degrade the drugs (due to cabin pressure, heat, packaging etc). Another concern is lack of a licensed pharmacist that is monitoring the drug being dispensed and sent.
In recent years, the internet has made it increasingly easier for individuals to seek out various products, including pharmaceuticals. However, it’s crucial to approach the topic of how do I buy drugs online with caution and awareness.
Low self-control is often manifested as impulsivity and lack of sense of mastery over one’s actions (Forrest et al., 2019). The link between low self-control and delinquency has been widely tested in criminology (Pratt & Cullen, 2000; Vazsonyi et al., 2017), and in relation to digital deviance and crime (Henson et al., 2017; Reyns et al., 2014). Integrative meta-analyses showed that high self-control is widely related to desirable outcomes and low self-control is related to deviant and addictive behaviors (Bendayan & Blanca, 2019; De Ridder & Lensvelt-Mulders, 2018).
The Risks Involved in Buying Drugs Online
On the now-empty streets, dealers and buyers would become significantly more visible. These circumstances may have initiated market adaptation, where drug transactions were shifted online and drug delivers are made via postal or individual courier services. Thus, the anonymity of online drug dealing and use of postal deliveries may reduce risks of detection (see Barratt & Aldridge, 2020; Dietze & Peacock, 2020). Limiting face-to-face contact would also reduce the risks of contracting the virus. Thus, online drug purchases would likely appeal to those wanting to avoid potential legal and health consequences.
Purchasing drugs online comes with significant risks, including:
- Legal Consequences: Buying controlled substances can lead to severe legal penalties.
- Health Risks: The quality and purity of drugs purchased online can be compromised.
- Financial Scams: Many websites are fraudulent, aiming to steal personal and financial information.
At the time, it reported that 24% of young people aged said they saw the sale of illicit drugs on social media. Recently this report has been updated (November 2022) and recent figures now depict this has increased to 35%. This sparked an interest, and coupled with research and interviewing a number of young people throughout the Gwent area, they have provided us with current information about the culture of drugs on social media. While neither Grindr, Scruff, nor Taimi allows users to buy illegal drugs or promote drug use on the site, plenty of users have accused the apps of not doing enough to police discreet drug peddlers. Additionally, while users across all platforms are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement, many profiles end up slipping through the cracks. Once someone has access, they can use its dark web markets to anonymously purchase without prescription any drug they want from online dealers or illegal online pharmacies.
Some reps from the pharmacy industry are opposed to legislation or additional powers for regulatory agencies because current laws are sufficient to address the issue. It remains to be seen whether new legislation will improve oversight of online pharmacies. Other sites advertise that customers can buy drugs without a prescription or make false health claims. Today, drug websites are found in nearly every state and country with a phone line. Market research firm Cyber Dialogue Inc. reports health concerns are the sixth most common reason people go online. But an expert told FOX 5 that simple emojis and keywords are linking kids directly to drug dealers on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram.
A Canadian company is betting that illegal drugs such as cocaine are going to follow the path of cannabis. Your teen’s healthcare provider is a good place to start for help and resources. Specialized care programs designed for adolescents can provide comprehensive support and treatment for your teen.
The Dangers Of A Rogue Pharmacy
How to Navigate Online Drug Purchases Safely
- At school, teens have access to a larger pool of drugs than what they would be accustomed to seeing in their own social groups.
- As an example, parents may not be aware that Snapchat has a “nearby” feature (6) that allows dealers at events that teens gather at, like parties or music events, to connect with them to purchase the drugs they are selling.
- Alondra, age 14, responded to a Snapchat advertisement for pills—which turned out to be fentanyl.
- This is especially true when strategies, such as eliminating those who take the survey too quickly, are utilized (Evans & Mathur, 2005; Wansink, 2001).
If you are considering purchasing medication online, it is essential to follow a set of guidelines to ensure safety:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always speak with a doctor before taking any medication.
- Use Legitimate Pharmacies: Only purchase from licensed online pharmacies that require a prescription.
- Verify Credentials: Check if the online pharmacy is accredited by relevant authorities, such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy.
- Check Reviews: Look for customer reviews and ratings for the online pharmacy.
- Be Cautious of Prices: If prices seem too good to be true, they often are.
Signs of a Scam Pharmacy
Knowing how to identify a scam pharmacy is crucial for protection:
- No Requirement for Prescription: Legitimate pharmacies will always ask for a prescription.
- Lack of Contact Information: Scammers often hide their contact details.
- Good Manufacturing Practices: They should comply with strict safety and quality standards.
FAQ: Buying Drugs Online
Q1: Is it legal to buy drugs online?
A1: It depends on the medication and your locale. Many controlled substances require a prescription.
Q2: How can I tell if an online pharmacy is legitimate?
A2: Look for proper licenses, check for customer reviews, and ensure they ask for a prescription.
Q3: What should I do if I suspect I’ve been scammed?
A3: Report the incident to authorities and monitor your financial statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Conclusion
The question how do I buy drugs online is complex and fraught with risks. Always prioritize safety and legality when considering online purchases. Consulting healthcare professionals and sticking to reputable sources can help safeguard your health and legal well-being.
