How Social Media has Made it Easy for Anyone to Purchase a Gun
With mass shootings seemingly on the rise, and the horror of events like the Sandy Hook school massacre still fresh in everyone’s memory, the subject of gun control has become pervasive. Why, then, is it easier than ever for a person to get a gun? One major reason is the Internet marketplace and social media. While most states require a background check for people buying guns from a gun store or licensed firearm dealer, this is not the case for people buying and selling guns privately, in person or online. Although it is illegal for a convicted felon or a person with a history of mental illness to possess a firearm, there is no way to keep them from gaining access to one in the Internet marketplace.
The danger of this easy access to firearms has caused Facebook to order a ban the private sale of firearms, gun parts, ammunition, and targets. This, however, has only forced private gun seekers and sellers to move to other Internet platforms. There are plenty of other electronic places where people can anonymously buy, sell, and trade for guns. While U.S. law requires the seller of a gun to practice due diligence not to sell a firearm to a convicted felon, there is no real way for a civilian to check such things. The Internet loopholes for getting a gun are many and frightening.
If you or a loved one has been injured by gun violence, you may be able to pursue compensation from several parties, including a private citizen who sold the gun to the party that caused your injury. To find out more about your legal rights and options, you need to contact an experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorney.
Farah & Farah has been successfully representing injury victims for over 35 years. The legal team at the law offices of Farah & Farah can advise you on the best avenue in which to pursue compensation. Call our offices today for a free consultation at (800) 533-3555.
