Young women in pot-themed Instagram memes at risk, experts say

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There‘s a new Instagram meme where scantily clad young women post photos of themselves smoking pot and using pot-themed hashtags to attract fans and likes.

While marijuana is now legal in several states, Instagram is reportedly trying to have the pics removed, but they are becoming so prevalent they are almost impossible to police.

Instagram’s basic guidelines state: “You may not post violent, nude, partially nude, discriminatory, unlawful, infringing, hateful, pornographic or sexually suggestive photos or other content via the Service.”

Social media strategist and founder of  @WeGotYou, Shannon Self, told FOX411: “Instagram is looking into the legalities of changing its policies. In a state like Arizona with harsh anti-marijuana laws, a photograph of someone smoking weed documents a possession felony involving a $150,000 fine and up to 18 months in jail.”

Patricia D’Orsa-Dijamco, retired Drug Enforcement Administration Agent, and president of private investigation frim D’Orsa and Associates explained some of the current marijuana restrictions in the United States.

“No persons should be posting pictures of themselves smoking pot and using pot-themed hashtags to attract fans and ‘likes’ in any state,” D’Orsa-Dijamco  said. “Even though 23 states have legalized medical marijuana and four states have legalized recreational marijuana, marijuana remains illegal federally.”

D’Orsa-Dijamco said those looking for Insta-fame using pot-themed pics could find themselves in big trouble.

“People who post pictures of themselves could potentially face criminal charges. Although, as an investigator, I would like to obtain additional evidence to support the illegal activity before I present the case to a prosecutor,” D’Orsa-Dijamco said.

Legal implications aside, posting such pictures on a social media site could lead to future employment issues.

“100 percent it can, now so many employers are researching the social media posts of potential new hires,” said Self.

“One minimizes their potential employment and earning capacity which may, in the end, affect their life,” D’Orsa-Dijamco said. “In addition, for instance: in a child custody battle, the pictures of anyone conducting any illegal activity or questionable moral turpitude could affect the outcome of custody.”

Professional and legal consequences aside, such dicey social media behavior can be addictive and indicative of exhibitionism according to clinical psychologist Dr. Chloe Carmichael.

“I would classify it under exhibitionism, if the desire for attention impeded the person's judgment and consideration of negative consequences, such as difficulties in work or personal relationships,” Carmichael said.

FOX411 reached out to Instagram but did not receive comment.