Snapchat is launching new tools to combat illegal drug sales on its platform!

Snapchat is launching new tools and educational resources to prevent young users from buying counterfeit and illegal drugs through the platform, stepping up its efforts to combat illegal drug sales.

Snapchat said it has improved its proactive detection capabilities and is actively working with law enforcement to remove drug dealers from its platform before they come into contact with users and cause harm. Snapchat noted that its enforcement rate increased by 112% in the first half of 2021, its response time increased by 85% year-on-year, and its proactive detection rate increased by 260%. Its artificial intelligence system proactively detects nearly two-thirds of drug-related content. Snapchat is also working to improve its in-app reporting tools to make it easier for users to report drug-related content.

Additionally, when users search for drug-related keywords, they will now see a new in-app education portal called "Heads Up." The portal will showcase relevant educational content aimed at preventing harm.

The launch of Snapchat’s new tool is attributed to a recent NBC News report investigating the deaths of teens and young adults who allegedly used Snapchat to buy pills that tested positive for the drug fentanyl.

Editor ✎ Estella/

Statement: This article is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission.