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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Achol Arok

Australia banned vape ads more than two years ago – so why are they still all over social media?

TikTok Australia Instagram Becky Freeman Guardian Australia TGA
A phone that shows a online vape purchase order.
The accounts posted promotional content offering to sell viewers popular vape brands, in most cases directing viewers to order via private messages or encrypted messaging apps. Illustration: Victoria Hart/Guardian Design

Illegal vape sellers have turned to social media to promote nicotine-filled products, with experts calling for a crackdown including stronger penalties for the platforms.

Guardian Australia has identified a network of posts across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube promoting the sale of illegal products to Australian audiences.

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