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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. Drugs purchased online can be just as dangerous as those purchased on the street because they are not regulated or tested, and their purity and composition are unknown. Another factor behind wealthy and highly educated individuals’ presence in online marketplaces may relate their relative online savviness and resources needed to do online transactions. Users need a stable internet connection, and must download specific browsers and buy cryptocurrency to be able to purchase on the dark web (Norbutas, 2018; Norbutas et al., 2020).
Communication and transactions usually occur off of the site using encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp or Kik. The buyer can pay using a service like Venmo and the product is shipped to their door. If someone dismantled the yellow brick road, Dorothy and the gang might never of found the great wizard.
With the rise of the internet, buying drugs online has become increasingly popular. However, it’s important to remember that not all online pharmacies are legitimate, and some may even sell counterfeit or expired medications. Here are some tips on how to buy drugs online safely:
1. Check if the Pharmacy is Legitimate
Why Buying Drugs On The Dark Web Can Be As Dangerous As Buying Drugs In A Dark Alley
Before making a purchase, make sure that the online pharmacy is legitimate. Look for signs such as a physical address, a phone number, and a licensed pharmacist on staff. You can also check if the pharmacy is accredited by organizations such as the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) or the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) program.
In this study, we focused on factors related to buying drugs online, an understudied and emerging problem behavior among young people. Our first aim was to evaluate the prevalence of social media drug acquisition in a population of the United States and Spanish young people. These countries were selected due to their high percentage of drug use among young people (ESPAD, 2016; Savolainen, 2020). These countries are otherwise comparable in the usage of Internet among young people (Savolainen et al, 2020) and provide a good starting point for comparative research on buying drugs online.
2. Verify the Medication
How To Order Prescription Drugs Safely Online
- “They never ask for my age and sometimes I kind of go, ‘I’m 17 years old, do I need a credit card?” Feinberg added.
- Another factor behind wealthy and highly educated individuals’ presence in online marketplaces may relate their relative online savviness and resources needed to do online transactions.
- In addition to the legal risk, buying drugs on the dark web could put you at financial risk and risk of identity theft and fraud.
- How to get helpIf parents believe their child is experiencing social-emotional challenges or might already be using illicit substances, Dr. Bradshaw recommends they seek treatment from a trained mental health professional.
- Assuming there was an increased use of online drug markets, the question remains why this happened during the pandemic.
- Considering the potential dangers of drug misuse, obtaining a free Naloxone/Narcan kit and learning how to use it can be a lifesaving precaution for households with teens experimenting with drugs.
Make sure that the medication you are buying is what it claims to be. Check the label for the active ingredient, dosage, and manufacturer. If the medication looks different from what you are used to, or if the label is missing important information, it may be a counterfeit product.
Buying Illegal Drugs Online Or Through An App
3. Use a Secure Payment Method
When making a purchase, use a secure payment method such as a credit card or PayPal. Avoid wire transfers or cashier’s checks, as these can be difficult to trace and may be used for fraudulent activities. Also, be sure to check your credit card statement regularly for any suspicious charges.
4. Read Reviews
Before making a purchase, read reviews from other customers. Look for reviews that mention the quality of the medication, the customer service, and the shipping time. Avoid online pharmacies with negative reviews or no reviews at all.
Others make false health claims or advertise that you can buy medicines with no prescription. In 2019, the Government published the Online Harms White Paper, which outlined a plan of action to address harmful behaviour online. This has since transformed into the Online Safety Bill, which is currently going through Parliament. The legislation aims to hold social media platforms, and search engines, accountable for the content their users post and are exposed to. All platforms will need to make an effort to tackle illegal content such as terrorist material and child sexual exploitation/abuse.
5. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Before taking any medication, consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you determine if the medication is safe and appropriate for your needs. They can also provide guidance on dosage and potential side effects.
In conclusion, buying drugs online can be a convenient and cost-effective way to obtain medication. However, it’s important to take precautions to ensure that you are buying from a legitimate online pharmacy and that the medication is safe and effective. By following these tips, you can buy drugs online safely and with confidence.
