UAB Partners with Facebook to Fight Online Drug Sales
Computer forensics researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently partnered with Facebook on an initiative that could ultimately curb drug sales and drug-seeking behavior on the platform. They’re developing computer algorithms that can recognize the newest slang for street drugs such as heroin and fentanyl.
Gary Warner, director of research at UAB’s Computer Forensics Research Lab, works along with his staff to monitor conversations on Facebook around the use and sale of illicit drugs.
Source: Michael Liptrott,WBHM
Gary Warner is the Director of Research at UAB’s Computer Forensics Research Lab. He and his staff monitor conversations on Facebook around the use and sale of illicit drugs.
Dealers on the site often disguise themselves as chemical supply companies. They and some drug seekers often use covert slang for drugs. Warner’s team uses machine learning to teach Facebook these new terms and flag the content.
On the seller’s side, the objective is to make it so that if someone tries to post content to Facebook that’s about selling drugs, they won’t be able to put that post up. Then on the buyer’s side, it’s about referring them to help.
Help comes in the form of a Facebook redirect to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration homepage. From there, people can find the nearest treatment options.
After Texas ruling, Trump and Republicans head to 2026 with a redistricting edge
Trump has prompted a redistricting race as he tries to maintain Republican control of the House in the 2026 elections. Democrats have fewer options to counter, as the battle heads into next year.
How China, not the U.S., became the main climate solution story in 2025
The U.S. has become a "side character" in the global story of renewable energy, experts say. China dominates the sector, with positive implications for the climate and their economy.
Supreme Court to hear case that could vastly expand presidential powers
The Supreme Court hears arguments in a case about President Trump's firing of a Federal Trade Commissioner. At stake is a 90-year precedent limiting the president's power over independent agencies.
Republicans push high deductible plans and health savings accounts
A Republican call to give Americans cash instead of health insurance subsidies revives an old idea that has left millions with medical debt.
Zelenskyy heads to London for more Ukraine peace talks. Here’s what to know
The talks signal fresh support from European allies. But they follow stalled U.S. negotiations in Miami and comments from President Trump's son suggesting Washington is ready to pull back.
Tributes, not politics, play center stage as Trump hosts the Kennedy Center Honors
President Trump said he was closely involved with picking the honorees, and on Sunday he became the first president to host the Kennedy Center awards ceremony.
