U.S. Prosecutors Investigate Meta Over Alleged Facilitation of Illegal Drug Sales

U.S. prosecutors in Virginia are reportedly investigating whether Meta, the parent company of Facebook, facilitated and profited from the illegal sale of drugs through its social media platforms, according to sources familiar with the issue cited by the Wall Street Journal.

Subpoenas and Grand Jury Inquiry:

The prosecutors issued subpoenas last year and have been conducting inquiries as part of a criminal grand jury investigation. They have sought records related to drug content and illicit drug sales on Meta’s platforms.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is helping in the investigation, although it’s noted that such inquiries do not always result in charges being filed.

Meta’s Response:

A spokesperson for Meta emphasized that the sale of illicit drugs violates their policies, and they actively work to remove such content from their services. 

The company stated its proactive cooperation with law enforcement authorities to combat the illegal sale and distribution of drugs.

No Comment from Authorities:

When approached by the Wall Street Journal, the prosecutor’s office and an FDA spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.

Meta’s president of global affairs, Nick Clegg, announced on social media platform X that the company has partnered with the U.S. State Department, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and Snapchat to disrupt the sale of synthetic drugs online and raise awareness about associated risks.

Pending Responses:

As of the report’s publication, Meta, the FDA, and the Virginia Attorney General’s office had not responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.