Verify the pharmacy’s license with your provincial regulatory body. Each province maintains a list of registered pharmacies; cross-reference this list with the pharmacy’s website details. Discrepancies raise red flags.
Check for a physical address and contact information. Legitimate pharmacies openly display their location and readily provide phone numbers and email addresses. Avoid pharmacies using only PO boxes or virtual addresses.
Scrutinize the website’s security. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar. These indicators confirm the site uses encryption to protect your personal and financial data. Report any sites lacking these security measures.
Understanding Pricing and Payment Methods
Compare prices across multiple licensed pharmacies. While significant price differences might indicate a problem, remember that medication costs can legitimately vary. Be wary of exceptionally low prices which may suggest counterfeit medications. Familiarize yourself with accepted payment methods and only use secure payment gateways.
Protecting Your Privacy
Review the pharmacy’s privacy policy. Ensure it clearly outlines how they handle your personal information, including prescription details and payment data. Avoid pharmacies with vague or missing privacy policies.
