Protecting Yourself from Scams and Fraud

Verify the online pharmacy’s legitimacy using third-party resources like LegitScript or PharmacyChecker. These sites assess online pharmacies for safety and authenticity.

Check for a physical address and contact information. Legitimate businesses readily provide this information. Avoid sites with only PO boxes or vague contact details.

Scrutinize the website for professional design and clear information. Poor grammar, blurry images, and missing details are red flags.

Secure Payment Methods

Pay only with secure methods like PayPal or credit cards that offer buyer protection. Avoid wire transfers or prepaid debit cards, which rarely offer refunds.

Prescription Verification

Ensure the online pharmacy requires a valid prescription from a licensed physician. Unauthorized sales of prescription drugs are illegal and dangerous.

Read reviews from multiple sources. Look for independent reviews; reviews on the site itself might be manipulated.

Be wary of unsolicited offers. Legitimate pharmacies rarely aggressively solicit business via spam email or text.

Report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. The FDA and your local consumer protection agency can help investigate fraudulent online pharmacies.