Check for a valid license and registration. Legitimate online pharmacies display their license information prominently on their website. Look for verifiable licenses from regulatory bodies like the Pharmacy Checker Verification Program or similar organizations in your country. Don’t rely solely on visual elements; verify the license directly with the issuing authority.
Secure Website Features: Encryption and Protocols
Ensure the pharmacy uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar), indicating secure data transmission. Verify that their website uses strong encryption protocols (like SSL/TLS) to protect your personal and payment information. Avoid sites lacking these security features.
Look for a physical address and contact information. Reputable pharmacies provide a verifiable physical address and multiple contact methods (phone, email, fax). Be wary of sites with only a PO Box or limited contact details. Investigate the contact details to ensure their legitimacy.
Read independent reviews and ratings. Consult review sites and forums focusing on online pharmacies to gain user perspectives on experiences with a specific pharmacy. However, remember that some reviews might be fake, so cross-reference with other sources.
Beware of suspiciously low prices. Prices drastically lower than average might suggest counterfeit or substandard medications. Consider the overall value proposition, including the security measures taken by the site.
