The dangers of illicit vapes

Criminal gangs are flooding the UK with dangerous illicit vapes, targeting vulnerable consumers.

As of 1 June 2025, the supply and sale of disposable vapes is prohibited in the UK. Illegal vapes, including banned disposables, will continue to be sold by unscrupulous retailers. Consumers are cautioned to only buy brands that comply with UK regulations and from trusted retailers.

An illicit vape is one that is sold illegally. These products are typically unregulated and untested, and can contain dangerous levels of nicotine and other harmful substances, including unsafe levels of lead and nickel. The risks associated with using these unregulated and unsafe vapes include heart palpitations, respiratory issues, and long-term addiction, particularly among children, who are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of nicotine.

If you know where illicit vapes are being sold, or who is supplying them, tell us - you stay 100% anonymous, guaranteed. Call 0800 555 111 or fill in our quick & easy online form, here on our website:

Give information anonymously

Vapes sold under the counter

Illicit vapes are being sold in cash-intensive businesses, from convenience stores, independent vape stores and market stalls to barber-shops and phone repair kiosks - some of these outlets serve as fronts for money laundering.

There is also the danger of purchasing from unregulated online stores, where products lack proper labelling and health warnings. Because they do not adhere to safety regulations, they can pose significant health risks to users and may be contributing to other dangerous criminal activity.

Read a recent BBC news story about this:

Shops found to be flouting single-use vape ban

The sale and supply of illicit vapes have been increasingly linked to organised crime

Trading Standards and the police have identified that illegal vapes distributed by criminals are often sold alongside other illicit goods such as fake tobacco. The gangs use the illicit vapes to fund other criminal activities such as drug dealing, human trafficking and modern slavery.

Children and the vulnerable are in danger

Criminals have been found to use vapes as tools to groom and exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly juveniles. There are cases where children are given vapes in exchange for engaging in illegal activities or sexual favours. This form of exploitation often goes unnoticed, as victims do not recognise the coercive nature of the relationship.

If you know who is supplying illegal vapes, tell us and help keep your community safe.

Signs to spot

Recognising the signs of illicit vape sales and the associated exploitation can help with taking them off our streets and reducing the harm they inflict on communities:

Unusually low prices: if the price of a vape seems too good to be true, it might be an illicit product.
Not refillable, or does not support replacement pods/containers and not rechargeable: from 1 June 2025, the sale of disposable vapes will be banned in the UK.
Lack of proper labelling: if the product lacks manufacturer or importer details, health warnings, and other regulatory information, it’s most likely a fake.
Suspicious selling locations: these products are frequently sold at market stalls, barbers, convenience stores, the back of vans, and untrustworthy websites.
Exploitation taking place: be aware of young people being coerced into selling these products, as this can be a sign of grooming and exploitation.

What information is useful?

Details of the criminals and the address of where they are storing, selling or supplying illicit vapes from are key when giving information.

The criminals: If you know who they are, tell us - otherwise, please describe what they were wearing, any distinguishable features, and any particular jewellery they may have been wearing. If they have a vehicle and you know the make, model, colour and/or registration of the vehicle, this is all useful information.
The products: please describe the items being sold or supplied, including any brand names, packaging details, quantities, and where they are stored, or if they are hidden out of sight under the counter or in a concealed storage area.

Speaking up to Crimestoppers about the sale and distribution of illicit vapes contributes to protecting public health, safeguarding vulnerable individuals from exploitation and harm, and stemming the funding of criminal gangs.

Together, we can ensure our communities remain safe and healthy.

If you suspect someone is selling, supplying, storing or transporting illicit vapes, tell us, and stay 100% anonymous: