Check the pharmacy’s license and accreditation. Look for verification from bodies like the NABP (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) or similar organizations in your country. This confirms legal operation and adherence to standards.
Verify secure payment methods. Legitimate pharmacies use SSL encryption (look for the padlock icon in the browser address bar) to protect your financial information. Avoid pharmacies accepting only wire transfers or other less secure methods.
Scrutinize their contact information. A legitimate pharmacy will provide a physical address, phone number, and email address readily available on their website. Be wary of sites with only a PO box or lacking contact details.
Read customer reviews independently. Check sites like Trustpilot or similar review platforms. Pay attention to consistent feedback, both positive and negative. High ratings alone aren’t enough; examine the details of reviews for recurring issues.
Examine their privacy policy. A reputable pharmacy will have a clear and accessible privacy policy outlining how they handle your personal and health information. Ensure it complies with relevant data protection regulations.
Confirm their medication sourcing. A trustworthy pharmacy will provide transparent information about their suppliers and where they source their medications. Be cautious of pharmacies that are vague or secretive about their supply chain.
Understand their return policy. A reputable pharmacy offers a clear return policy in case of damaged or incorrect orders. Review this policy before placing an order.
Report suspicious pharmacies. If you encounter a pharmacy displaying red flags, report them to the relevant authorities in your jurisdiction. This helps protect others from potential scams.
