As a parent in today’s digital age, it’s increasingly challenging to keep up with the latest trends and slang that kids use online. But what if some of these seemingly innocent emojis hold hidden meanings that could put your child in harm’s way? Recently, police have issued a warning to parents about the horse emoji, which is being used to reference ketamine, a powerful tranquilizer drug.
Ketamine, also known as “Special K,” is a hallucinogenic substance that is increasingly being abused by teens and young adults. The horse emoji is just one of many symbols being used to secretly reference drugs online. Other emojis to watch out for include the alien, skull, or demon mask, which represents MDMA (Ecstasy or “Molly”), and the snowflake or snowman, which symbolizes cocaine.
But it’s not just drug references that parents need to be aware of. Emojis are also being used to promote radical ideologies, including the manosphere and incel movements. These online communities promote extreme misogyny and anti-feminist ideologies, and are drawing in young boys at an alarming rate.
Experts warn that social media platforms have made it easier for these messages to spread, making it crucial for parents to stay informed. Dr. Robert Lawson, a sociolinguistics expert, explains how the pill emoji has been adopted by the manosphere movement, symbolizing the “red pill” ideology that promotes a twisted view of women’s behavior and dating preferences.
So, what can parents do to keep their kids safe online? First, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest trends in online slang and emoji meanings. Have open conversations with your kids about the dangers of online radicalization and drug use. Monitor their digital activity without invading their privacy, and use parental controls to filter out harmful content.
By staying educated and proactive, parents can help keep their kids safe in an online world that’s constantly changing. It’s time to take a closer look at the emojis your kids are using and have a conversation about what they really mean. Share this article to inform other parents and help keep our kids safe online.
