Dealers now study teenagers’ interests and moods online to craft personal offers, and officials say open family conversation is the best defence
What is happening?
Drug traffickers are using artificial intelligence and social media to target young people. “Preventative measures need to evolve with how youth communicate. Promoters and drug traffickers are evolving their methods,” Dr Abdullah Al-Khayyat, adviser for the National Drug Enforcement Authority said.
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When and where?
The comments were made by Dr Al-Khayyat on Thursday, as per reports. The warning comes as authorities in the UAE monitor how drug networks are becoming more online. Young people were also given tips on keeping themselves safe during a UN crime congress in Abu Dhabi.
Who is being targeted?
Young people are being targeted. Drug traffickers will research what interests them and what their flaws are. Often young people tend to post what they enjoy and how they feel online.
How are they doing this?
Promoters use AI and data analytics to find out what they like. They can then create a deal specifically tailored to them. Traffickers can easily contact young people through social media, encrypted messaging apps and electronic payments. Gaming platforms are also being used along with other digital methods. Some platforms also allow the traffickers to remain anonymous, create fake profiles and use slang. Illicit drugs are often sold as normal products.
Why prevention is important?
“Prevention is key to keeping young people safe. We have to keep our awareness campaigns up to date with how young people are really communicating,” Dr Al-Khayyat said. Authorities argue traditional methods won’t work as traffickers are using modern methods.
It is a shared responsibility
“We believe it is everyone’s responsibility to combat drugs. Families should be educated, there should be an open dialogue at home and we should take preventative measures to understand how young people are using the internet. If parents can openly talk to their children about the deals they are being offered online the chances of them being targeted will decrease,” said Fahad Abdullah Haikal, spokesperson for the National Drug Enforcement Authority. Young people were told to research where things are coming from and avoid unauthorised channels during the UN congress.
How is the UAE fighting back?
The UAE are also using technology. “We use data and AI to identify trends in drug trafficking and transnational crimes,” Dr Al-Khayyat said. As traffickers become more online the UAE are putting their National Anti-Drugs Strategy 2024-2031 into action. Authorities are working more closely with technology companies and social media platforms to limit harmful content.
Whilst dealers may have the advantage of using AI, raising awareness and having an open conversation within the family is the first step.
Also Read: UAE Anti-Drug Campaign Asks Families to Be First Defence
