Check for a physical address and contact information in Canada. Legitimate pharmacies will openly display this. Verify the address independently using online mapping services. Avoid pharmacies with only a PO Box.
Look for a license number. Canadian online pharmacies must be licensed by a provincial regulatory body. This information should be readily available on their website. Verify the license with the appropriate regulatory authority.
Examine their security measures. Secure websites use HTTPS (indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar). Check for privacy policies explaining how they handle your personal and health information.
Scrutinize their customer service. A legitimate pharmacy provides multiple contact options, such as phone, email, and live chat. Test their responsiveness and helpfulness. Avoid pharmacies with poor or nonexistent customer support.
Physical Address | Clearly displayed and verifiable | Missing or unverifiable |
License | Prominently displayed and verifiable with provincial authorities | Missing or fraudulent |
Security | Uses HTTPS, clear privacy policy | Uses HTTP, vague or missing privacy policy |
Customer Service | Multiple contact options, responsive and helpful | Limited or unresponsive contact options |
Report suspicious pharmacies to Health Canada. If you encounter a website you suspect is operating illegally, report it to the appropriate authorities.