Recent research proves that not only are minors buying alcohol online, but it’s a trend that is bound to increase.
In April 2006, Teenage Research Unlimited (TRU) conducted a survey assessing minors’:
- Online and phone alcohol ordering practices
- Awareness of websites that sell alcohol
- Assumptions about the practicality of using the Internet or phone to circumvent
underage drinking laws
- Propensity to order alcohol via the Internet, phone or mail
- Alcohol consumption habits
The survey revealed that:
- More than half a million minors (551,000) say they personally have bought alcohol online, and the figure rises to 578,000 when factoring in phone purchases.
- Minors report knowing 3.1 million friends who have made alcohol purchases via the Internet.
- Millions more are visiting websites that sell alcohol.
- The vast majority (75%) say their parents cannot control what they do on the Internet.
- As exposure and awareness increase, even more minors can be expected to purchase wine, beer and liquor online.
To view a copy of the full survey findings, click here.
Next: Why are states weakening alcohol controls?
What can you do?