Identifying Legitimate Canadian Online Pharmacies

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.

Aspect Legitimate Pharmacy Illegitimate Pharmacy
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.