Raising kids in today’s digital world presents new challenges, with social media evolving rapidly and children spending more time online. Keeping up with their online conversations can be difficult, and authorities are now warning parents about an innocent-looking emoji that could carry a much darker meaning.
Emojis as a Secret Code
Messaging apps and social media are the main ways kids communicate, but many don’t realize the dangers that come with them. While online safety resources exist, the reality is that children remain vulnerable to various threats, from online predators to radical ideologies.
Now, law enforcement officials have uncovered a concerning trend—certain emojis are being used as a hidden language among young people, with one in particular raising alarms: the horse emoji.
The Horse Emoji’s True Meaning
Though it might seem like kids are simply talking about ponies, the horse emoji is actually being used as a symbol for ketamine, a potent tranquilizer that is increasingly being abused for its hallucinogenic effects. Known as “Special K,” ketamine is popular among teens and young adults, and authorities are working to crack down on the hidden drug references appearing in online conversations.
Police are urging parents to stay aware of their children’s digital activity and familiarize themselves with the secret meanings behind common emojis.
Other Emojis Parents Should Be Aware Of
The horse emoji isn’t the only one with a hidden meaning. Law enforcement has identified several emojis linked to drug use, including:
- Alien, skull, or demon mask – MDMA (Ecstasy or “Molly”)
- Snowflake or snowman – Cocaine
- Maple leaf, tree, or four-leaf clover – Marijuana
- Cake, ice cream, or fruits like grapes, lemons, and cherries – Edibles or cannabis products
However, emojis aren’t just being used for drug references. The rise of extremist online communities has led to the creation of another hidden code system—one connected to toxic ideologies.
How Emojis Play a Role in Online Radicalization
Netflix’s hit series Adolescence recently highlighted how certain online groups use emojis to communicate in secret. The show follows a 13-year-old boy who gets drawn into the “manosphere” and incel (involuntary celibate) communities, ultimately leading to a violent act.
Within these groups, emojis serve as coded symbols, including:
- Dynamite emoji – Represents incel ideology and the idea of an “exploding red pill”
- 100 emoji – References the “80/20 rule,” a belief that only 20% of men attract 80% of women
- Kidney bean emoji – Used to label someone as an incel
Experts warn that these online spaces, which promote extreme misogyny and anti-feminist beliefs, are rapidly drawing in young boys. Social media has made it easier for these messages to spread, making it even more crucial for parents to stay aware.
Dr. Robert Lawson, a sociolinguistics expert from Birmingham City University, explained in The Conversation how the manosphere has adopted the pill emoji as a symbol.
“The cyberpunk blockbuster The Matrix is the source of a key symbol in the manosphere – the red pill,” he said.
In these online communities, being “red-pilled” means believing that one has awakened to the supposed “true” nature of women and modern dating dynamics.
How Parents Can Protect Their Kids
As digital culture continues to evolve, so do the ways young people communicate. While emojis may seem harmless, they can carry hidden meanings that parents should be aware of. Here are some steps parents can take:
- Stay informed – Keep up with emerging online slang and emoji meanings.
- Encourage open discussions – Talk to kids about the risks of online radicalization and drug use.
- Monitor online activity – Keep an eye on their social media interactions without invading their privacy.
- Use parental controls – Many apps offer built-in tools to filter harmful content.
The internet can be an incredible resource, but it also comes with risks. Staying educated and proactive is the best way to ensure children navigate the online world safely. Share this article to help inform other parents!