Co.s warn parents

Parenting in the digital age presents new challenges, especially with kids constantly connected through smartphones and social media. While these platforms offer ways to connect, they also expose children to hidden dangers — including coded messages using emojis. Law enforcement warns that emojis, often seen as innocent, are being used to secretly discuss drugs and harmful ideologies.

One major concern is the horse emoji 🐴, now linked to ketamine, a dangerous drug. Other emojis also signal drugs — like 👽 for ecstasy, ❄️ for cocaine, and 🍁 or 🎂 for marijuana and edibles. Netflix’s series Adolescence has also brought attention to how boys are being radicalized online via toxic groups like the “manosphere,” which uses emojis such as 💣 and 💯 to spread misogynistic ideologies. Experts say emojis like the 💊 pill represent a “red pill” awakening, rooted in dangerous views about women.

To protect kids, parents are urged to stay informed, talk openly with their children, monitor online activity, and use parental controls. Emojis may seem harmless, but staying aware of their hidden meanings is key to keeping kids safe in today’s complex digital world.