Navigating the Psychedelic Maze: A Guide to Safe Exploration in the Digital Age

Psychedelics

4 Oct

Written By Australian Psychedelic Society

By Jef Baker and Antanika Hoberg

Caveat emptor, Latin for "Let the buyer beware," applies as equally to today’s social media environment as it did in the Roman marketplace. With increased interest in psychedelics and the entirely unregulated nature of illicit drug markets, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and other digital spaces have become the new frontier for scammers.

The Psychedelic Marketplace:

You may have noticed comments that give themselves away, appearing within threads, sometimes on posts as old as 4-5 years. These comments are often vague, generic, and slightly personable, appearing under a person's comment with their name tagged as a personal response, as though they are referring you to their buddy/dealer. Facebook groups seem to be set up for the sole purpose of establishing these purported ‘psychedelic marketplaces.’

However, there is no actual dealer (plug, hook up, etc.) with an Instagram name like ‘trippy feels’ or ‘myco_jackson.’ There never was any product either; it's a ruse to get you to hand over your money. These scammers will agree to provide almost any obscure psychedelic research chemical from the forgotten depths of Shulgin’s lab (ask if they have Jenkum) because they want your money. Sometimes, they seem to be alerted to the mere mention of DMT, LSD, MDMA, or Psilocybin. While admins and mods of well-maintained pages and groups are quick to clear these comments, they are often visible in the comment sections of, for example, a Joe Rogan video clip mentioning these compounds. Another tactic is an actual post in a large psychedelic group displaying a vial of what looks like DMT, a vape cart, or Mushroom chocolate bars, and a comment like “what’s stopping you from tripping today” or “who's tried these”... They wait for people to DM asking, “where can I get this!?”

After a brief conversation via private message on Facebook or WhatsApp, or even referral to a Telegram group, the game is on. After gaining an order, they will insist that the target use a private courier company, pretending that this is the key to getting it through customs. This sets up an additional shake-down when the target starts inquiring where their parcel is. They will insist that extra duty needs to be paid, or that it’s been held up by customs and another few hundred is needed to get it cleared (not something that really happens, even when buying a new iPhone). Often, it's at this point that the sinking realization kicks in for many that it sounded too good to be true. This adage stands as true today as it ever did.

With the recent TGA rescheduling in Australia, the lack of clarity and detail around the decision alongside misleading headlines about ‘legalization’ have rightfully caused much more ambiguity and confusion as to the legal status of psilocybin and MDMA. Unless you are involved in a clinical trial or have a psychiatrist in the process of applying for permission to prescribe it - NOTHING HAS CHANGED! Psilocybin and MDMA are as illegal as they have always been. However, several unscrupulous and parasitical operators now prey on the desperation and urgency of people. They know many are seeking relief from debilitating depression, anxiety, trauma, and other illnesses and that they’ve no doubt heard so much about the promise of psychedelics.

So, one may now encounter on Facebook Marketplace or even Etsy; ‘pseudo shops/independent vendors’ with names like ‘Trippy Mushrooms Australia’ and an image of Psilocybe Cubensis. Many people have contacted us in the last few months to report that they have lost hundreds of dollars to these fraudulent sites. These people know, as well as the police do, that these are schedule 1 substances that carry severe sentences for even modest amounts. So, regardless of any encrypted messaging they offer to use, they would not risk advertising so openly and in most cases are not even based in Australia.

At the Australian Psychedelic Society, we receive several messages each week from people who have been taken by these scammers, and it is always saddening to hear as it is impossible to screen everybody that follows the APS.

If anyone receives private messages offering to sell/trade or give away any illicit substances through an APS group, PLEASE LET US KNOW. Furthermore, if anyone purports to represent the APS as if to lend credibility to their dodgy activities on any social media platform or even email, PLEASE contact us, as these predators are using our reputation to scam innocent people. The APS simply does not engage in this type of activity, so as soon as it is reported to us, we can remove the person from our groups and page and with your help, keep our community safe and supported.

Below are a few tips on how to keep yourself safe from online scammers and dodgy facilitators.

Education:

Understanding the Risks:

It is paramount to comprehend the risks associated with purchasing psychedelics online. Ingesting substances without knowledge of their origin or quality can result in severe health consequences. These substances, when not obtained from reliable and tested sources, can have unpredictable effects on both the mind and body. To ensure your safety, always test anything you acquire. Various testing kits are available online that can help identify the composition of substances, providing essential information before consumption.

Tips for Safety:

Exploring Psychedelics Safely:

For individuals genuinely interested in exploring psychedelics, safer avenues exist. Engaging in legitimate research studies or seeking guidance from mental health professionals experienced in psychedelic therapy can offer valuable insights and ensure a safer experience. Additionally, attending meetups and hearing firsthand accounts from the community can provide a deep understanding of others and our own experiences. Learning from experts and the community, who are often a wealth of support and knowledge, can enhance your awareness and ensure a more informed exploration.

Community Support:

Seeking Help and Guidance:

If you or someone you know is grappling with mental health issues, genuine organizations and support networks in Australia can provide assistance. Reach out to these organizations for support, counselling, and guidance. It is important to be cautious of underground facilitators and therapists who claim to offer to heal you or really do seem too good to be true. Legitimate professionals and experienced practitioners typically do not engage in unsolicited online communication. Always verify the credentials and legitimacy of mental health professionals before seeking their services. Remember: there are no guarantees with psychedelic experiences and that building unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment and difficulty integrating later.

Spotting Scams:

Vigilance Against Scams:

To avoid falling victim to online scams, it is crucial to be vigilant. We see many people who are seeking healing fall victim to these scams. Watch for red flags in online advertisements, such as suspiciously low prices, lack of detailed product information, or requests for payment through unconventional methods like cryptocurrency. Trust your instincts and do not hesitate to investigate further.

Legal Status:

Understanding Legal Boundaries:

Understanding the legal status of psychedelics in Australia is essential. Recent changes in regulations may have caused confusion, but it is important to note that, unless you are involved in a clinical trial or have a psychiatrist in the process of applying for permission to prescribe, NOTHING HAS CHANGED! Psilocybin and MDMA remain as illegal as they have always been. Being aware of the legal boundaries helps in making informed decisions and avoiding unlawful activities.

Reporting Scams:

Taking Action Against Fraud:

If you encounter scams related to illicit substances on social media or online platforms, report them to our social media moderators. Your vigilance can play a significant role in cracking down on these scams and protecting others from falling victim to fraudulent activities. By reporting suspicious activities promptly, you contribute to a safer online environment for everyone.

Critical Approach to Online Information:

Evaluating Credibility:

Approaching online information critically is paramount. Verify the credibility of resources by consulting safe and knowledgeable friends, especially when it comes to health-related or sensitive topics. Fact-checking information found online and being cautious about sharing unverified information with others can prevent the spread of misinformation. Developing a discerning approach to online content ensures that you make decisions based on accurate and reliable information.

See the images below from the APS social media of what many of our scammers often look like