Surge in illegal sales of drugs as gangs exploit ‘phenomenal market’ online

Criminal gangs are now turning to social media to sell “lifestyle” drugs to a large market at minimal risk and cost. Alastair Jeffrey, head of enforcement at the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), says that “[s]martphones have allowed people greater access to the internet, and all of a sudden this accessibility, combined with social media, has made a significant difference in how criminals reach consumers.” The majority of the gangs operate through websites claiming to be legitimate online pharmacies and focus on medications that people might be reluctant to ask their doctor or pharmacist about such as erectile dysfunction, weight loss, and hair loss medications.