Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center issues warning about emojis symbolizing drug activity
COLUMBUS – The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center is warning parents about emojis that they say are being used by youth on social media and electronic communications to market, sell, and buy illegal drugs.
According to the ONIC, the “emojis used in drug communications commonly refer to the physical, psychological, or physiological characteristics of the drugs.” They add that the presence of these emojis is only one indication of possible drug activity and these emojis can be used in other ways.
“The use of emojis in this manner is a nationwide trend, and our analysts are seeing it here in Ohio as they analyze electronic devices seized in ongoing drug investigations,” said Cynthia Peterman, ONIC Executive Director. “Although use of these emojis is most often harmless, it’s important that parents keep this alert in mind, especially if their child is showing other signs of withdrawal or drug abuse.”
The ONIC says emojis can refer to specific types of drugs, such as a peeled banana for oxycodone/Percocet, a step ladder for alprazolam/Xanax, a snail for fentanyl, or a palm tree for marijuana. Emojis can also be used in generic ways to denote a drug dealer with an electrical outlet plug or the price of a drug by using a concert ticket stub.
Photo examples provided by the ONIC can be found here.
To report a drug tip to ONIC, call 1-833-OHIO-NIC (644-6642).