Blades Down CIC has become aware of a serious issue, knives are being sold on Facebook Marketplace without any age verification, despite this being illegal in the UK.
In an investigation by The Guardian, four sets of knives were purchased and delivered to residential addresses with no checks to confirm the buyer was over 18. This is deeply concerning, as it exposes young people to easily accessible weapons and represents a clear failure of online safeguarding.
Since May 2019, UK law has made it illegal to sell knives online to anyone under the age of 18. This legislation was introduced to strengthen existing knife laws and reduce access to knives by children and young people. It is the responsibility of sellers, and the platforms they use, to comply with these rules and ensure that age checks are properly carried out.
Selling knives without proper age verification is against the law, yet platforms like Facebook, owned by Meta, are failing to enforce these measures consistently. By allowing knives to be bought and delivered to residential addresses without verification, Meta is enabling illegal sales and putting communities at risk.
This issue was brought to our attention by @nopointknives, and we fully support their efforts to raise awareness. In response, Blades Down CIC will now be routinely monitoring Facebook Marketplace and reporting any knife sales that do not comply with the law.
This isn’t just about online sales, it’s about safeguarding our communities and preventing harm. Easy access to knives contributes to youth violence and tragic incidents that could be avoided. Platforms, sellers, and regulators must be held accountable to ensure the law is enforced and young people are protected.
Blades Down CIC remains committed to taking action wherever we can, raising awareness, and supporting initiatives that keep young people safe. Online marketplaces must do their part, and we will continue to push for accountability where it is needed most.