Attorney General Alan Wilson urges parents to watch for emoji “drug codes” online

(COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson is warning families about a dangerous tactic being used by drug dealers: hiding illegal drug sales behind seemingly harmless emojis on social media and e-commerce platforms.

“Criminals are disguising deadly drugs behind a digital language of emojis that kids use every day,” Attorney General Wilson said. “As a father, I know how easily this can slip past parents. Just one pill can kill, and I urge every family in South Carolina to take note of these warning signs.”

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fake prescription pills often laced with fentanyl or methamphetamine are being marketed online with emojis serving as “drug codes.” These codes are used to advertise drugs such as:

• Cocaine, marijuana, Adderall, Xanax, Oxycodone, MDMA, mushrooms, heroin, and cough syrup.
• Dealers also use emoji combinations to signal high potency, large batches, or that they are open for business.

What Parents Should Look For

• Unusual emoji strings tied to talk of “homework,” “study help,” “parties,” or “plugs.”
• Slang such as “percs,” “oxy,” “bars,” “pressies,” or “mollies” paired with emojis.
• Sudden new contacts, hidden accounts, or disappearing chat messages.

How Families Can Protect Themselves

1. Talk with your children today. Explain the dangers of counterfeit pills.
2. Check privacy settings and DMs. Know who your kids are talking to.
3. Be alert for strange emoji codes. If something looks suspicious, ask questions.
4. Secure medications at home and dispose of unused prescriptions properly.
5. Report concerns to local law enforcement or a school resource officer. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.

Attorney General Wilson added, “These drug dealers are targeting our kids in the spaces where they feel safest, on their phones. Parents must be aware, vigilant, and proactive. Together, we can save lives and keep South Carolina’s children safe.”

Reference Material

For the DEA’s full Emoji Drug Code Guide, visit:
DEA Emoji Drug Code PDF

For more information about the #OnePillCanKill campaign, visit dea.gov/onepill