Snapchat Shares Insights Into Its Evolving Efforts to Combat Drug-Related Content

Snapchat Addresses Drug-Related Content on National Fentanyl Awareness Day Snapchat has released new statistics regarding its efforts to combat drug-related content, particularly concerning fentanyl, in observance of "National Fentanyl Awareness Day" in the United States. Fentanyl usage has become a significant problem in the country, with the CDC affirming that synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, are now the primary cause of overdose deaths nationwide. Snapchat, popular among younger users, has been linked to illegal drug distribution, making it a focal point for the company. Snap Inc. has emphasized its commitment to prioritizing community safety, stating, "At Snap, the safety of our community is paramount. We are deeply committed to removing content associated with the spread of illicit pills and powders that may be laced with fentanyl, and proactively educating the Snapchat community about the dangers of fentanyl." Furthermore, Snapchat's ephemeral messaging feature has raised concerns about facilitating illegal drug trade, as various reports have implicated the app in drug-related incidents. Nevertheless, Snap is shielded from having to disclose data on illegal activity occurring on its platform, thanks to Section 230. According to this law, platforms themselves cannot be held legally responsible for how individuals use their apps. Additionally, due to Snap's focus on user privacy, no definitive evidence links it specifically to the drug trade. However, Snap has implemented numerous detection processes and tools to combat illegal activity. Snapchat reported the following figures for 2024: - Over 2.4 million drug-related pieces of content were removed.
- 516,000 accounts were disabled due to violations related to drug content, and additional measures were implemented to prevent those accounts' associated devices from using Snapchat.
- More than 90% of overall illicit drug activity was detected proactively, enabling Snap's team to remove such content before it reached users or was reported. To provide context, Facebook also removed 2.4 million drug-related posts in Q4 2024. Considering Snapchat has approximately one-fourth of Facebook's daily active users, their enforcement efforts are relatively on par. The data illustrates Snap's significant measures to combat drug-related activity on its platform, even with limited resources. Snap also highlights its collaboration with law enforcement agencies and drug prevention organizations to exchange insights and coordinate efforts. Nevertheless, the battle against drug dealers remains an ongoing and challenging endeavor. Dealers continually modify their terminology and change accounts, profiles, and devices. Consequently, platforms must remain vigilant, adapt their processes, and evolve alongside these changes.