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The Standard
Londoners warned against scanning QR codes advertising cannabis websites
By William Mata,
5 hours ago
Police have warned against scanning QR codes that advertise cannabis PA
Londoners have been told to not scan QR codes on the growing number of stickers advertising illicit cannabis websites.
Police are wary of the growing number of ads springing up on lamp posts, bus stops and in toilets around the capital which advertise the drug and its delivery.
Inspector Kerry Goodwin, of City of London Police, said that the ads had been found in Soho and around the Leicester Square area, reports My London .
"Investigations are on-going and we’re working with the City of London Corporation to get the stickers removed as soon as we become aware of them,” he said.
“We'd urge members of the public to alert police if they see any of these stickers and to not scan the QR code."
Around 31.2 percent of people in England and Wales aged between 16 and 59 had used cannabis at least once during their lifetime, according to a 2021 study (PA)
Scanning the codes is said to send the user onto a website where it appears that cannabis can be bought and delivered.
The sites are also said to advertise CBD and other associated products, such as oils and edibles, with a number of made-up reviews attached to give the essence of authenticity.
A spokesperson for the Met said: "We do not believe cannabis, in any form, is benign."
People found in possession of cannabis can face up to five years in prison , and an unlimited fine, or both, while people who supply and produce cannabis can face up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
In January 2022, it was reported that there were plans for a new pilot scheme that would decriminalise cannabis in certain London boroughs.
The pilot would involve offering speeding course-style classes or counselling to young people caught with small amounts of cannabis in Lewisham,Greenwich, and Bexley, instead of them facing arrest.
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