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Facebook and Instagram have banned users who take to the social networks to sell and negotiate private deals on guns.
Facebook, which acquired Instagram in 2012, had already prevented unauthorized sellers from trading prescription drugs and marijuana.
The new rule on guns can be found in Facebook’s Community Standards, under the category ‘regulated goods’.
The statement reads:
‘We prohibit any attempts by unauthorized dealers to purchase, sell, or trade prescription drugs, marijuana, or firearms,’ the website says.
‘If you post an offer to purchase or sell alcohol, tobacco, or adult products, we expect you to comply with all applicable laws and carefully consider the audience for that content.
‘We do not allow you to use Facebook’s payment tools to sell or purchase regulated goods on our platform.’
A similar rule can be found in Instagram’s Community Guidelines, which state:
‘Instagram is not a place to support or praise terrorism, organized crime, or hate groups.
‘Offering sexual services, buying or selling firearms and illegal or prescription drugs (even if it’s legal in your region).
‘Remember to always follow the law when offering to sell or buy other regulated goods.’