In a landmark settlement, eBay, the renowned e-commerce platform, has agreed to pay $59 million to the U.S. Justice Department. This unprecedented move comes in response to allegations of the company’s failure to prevent the sale of pill press machines on its platform.

Pill press machines, often used in the illegal production of counterfeit drugs, have been at the center of the nation’s opioid crisis. These machines can produce pills that mimic legitimate prescription drugs but are laced with potent substances like fentanyl. The widespread availability of these machines on eBay has raised serious concerns about the company’s role in the ongoing overdose epidemic.

The settlement marks the Justice Department’s first with an e-commerce company for violating the federal Controlled Substances Act. This law governs the manufacturing and distribution of drugs. eBay was accused of failing to comply with recordkeeping and reporting requirements, including verification of purchasers’ identities.

In response to the settlement, eBay has committed to enhancing its compliance program. This includes stricter monitoring of the sale of pill presses and encapsulating machines on its website. The company has also pledged to work closely with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to ensure that these devices are not used illegally.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for e-commerce platforms to take proactive measures against the sale of illegal items. As the digital marketplace continues to grow, companies must prioritize the safety and well-being of their users.