With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging on, many people are turning to online pharmacies to get their medications. However, with the proliferation of fake online pharmacies, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell which ones are legitimate and which ones are scams. In this article, we’ll explore some ways you can tell if an online pharmacy is legit or fake.
1. Look for the VIPPS Seal
When you’re looking for an online pharmacy, one of the first things you should do is look for the VIPPS seal. This seal is given to pharmacies that meet certain standards set by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. If a pharmacy has this seal, it’s a good indication that it’s legitimate.
Another thing to look for is accreditation from the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB). This accreditation is only given to pharmacies that meet high standards for quality and safety.
Finally, you can always check with your state board of pharmacy to see if an online pharmacy is licensed in your state. If it’s not, that’s a good sign that it might not be legitimate.
By following these tips, you can help make sure that you’re only using legitimate online pharmacies.
2. Check for a Real Address and Phone Number
It’s important to make sure that the online pharmacy you’re considering is legitimate. One way to do this is to check for a physical address and phone number on the website. If there’s no address or phone number listed, that’s a red flag. You should also be able to find reviews of the pharmacy online. Legitimate pharmacies will usually have positive reviews from customers.
3. Read the Reviews
When you’re trying to determine whether an online pharmacy is legit or fake, one of the best things you can do is read the reviews. Look for reviews from other customers who have used the pharmacy, and see what they have to say about their experience. If you see a lot of positive reviews, that’s a good sign that the pharmacy is legitimate. However, if you see mostly negative reviews or no reviews at all, that’s a red flag that you should be wary of using the pharmacy.
4. Know Your Rights as a Consumer
If you’re considering using an online pharmacy, it’s important to do your research to make sure the site is legitimate. Here are a few things to look for:
- A physical address and phone number: A legitimate online pharmacy will have both of these listed somewhere on their site. If you can’t find this information, move on.
- A pharmacist available to answer questions: A good online pharmacy will have a pharmacist available to answer your questions either by phone or email. This shows that they’re knowledgeable and want to help you make the best decision for your health.
- Accreditation: Legitimate online pharmacies will be accredited by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. You can check their website to see if a particular pharmacy is accredited.
- Privacy policy: A good online pharmacy will have a privacy policy that protects your personal information. Be sure to read this carefully before giving out any information about yourself.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re using a legitimate online pharmacy that will give you the best possible care.