Recent data from the Estonian Ministry of the Interior reveals a significant shift in drug trafficking activities towards the digital domain. Dealers are now operating within online chat rooms and utilizing QR codes for marketing their products, making the illicit drug market less visible in public spaces. This transition not only enhances the anonymity of drug transactions but also complicates the efforts of law enforcement agencies in tackling drug-related crimes.

The Estonian police and border guard authorities have observed that the drug market has become more dispersed and diverse due to its digital migration. A notable portion of drug distribution and trafficking is now carried out through social media and encrypted communication platforms, which poses challenges for tracking and monitoring these illegal activities effectively. As drug dealers benefit from reduced visibility, the enforcement of drug laws has required adaptation to these new methods of operation.

Furthermore, the police have targeted various digital channels to curb drug-related crimes, including popular platforms such as Telegram, Snapchat, and Signal, as well as closed groups on Facebook and Instagram. In these social media environments, dealers engage in either public or semi-public conversations to advertise their availability for sales, leading to private interactions for the completion of the transactions. This evolution in drug trafficking methods highlights the pressing need for law enforcement to innovate and respond effectively to the challenges posed by the digital landscape.