Verify licensing with the provincial regulatory college. Each province has its own college of pharmacists; search online for “[province name] college of pharmacists” to find the relevant website. Check if the pharmacy’s license is current and valid.
Confirm Physical Address and Contact Information
Legitimate Canadian pharmacies have a physical address in Canada. Locate this address on their website and use online mapping services to verify its existence. Look for a readily available phone number and email address for customer support. Avoid pharmacies lacking transparent contact details.
- Check for a physical address easily visible on the website. Confirm the address using an online map. Look for a readily available phone number and email address.
Scrutinize Website Security
Secure websites utilize HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. Check for this security feature. Your personal and financial information should be protected during transactions.
Look for the padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. Ensure the website uses HTTPS protocol.
Read Customer Reviews
Independent review sites, like those focused on health or online shopping, offer valuable insights. Consider both positive and negative reviews, looking for patterns or recurring issues. Pay attention to comments regarding shipping times, customer service, and authenticity of medications.
Review the Pharmacy’s Privacy Policy
A clear and detailed privacy policy explains how the pharmacy handles your personal information. Review it carefully before sharing any data. Look for a policy that aligns with Canadian privacy laws.
Report Suspicious Pharmacies
If you encounter a pharmacy you suspect is operating illegally, report it to the relevant provincial regulatory college. Protecting patient safety is paramount.
