Some of the most common unsolicited e-mail offers received by consumers offer prescription medication with just a few clicks of the mouse. Offers for inexpensive medication refills are especially attractive to consumers without medical insurance or families on a tight budget. Connecticut Better Business Bureau, however, says illegal online pharmacies are flourishing, and at the same time putting buyers at serious risk.
There are many reputable online drug stores that follow the rules; Connecticut Better Business Bureau President, Paulette Scarpetti, warns there are also many that don’t.
“It is crucial for people to understand the risks of dealing with unscrupulous online pharmacies. They often sell products that may be beyond their expiration date, or worse, mislabeled, contaminated or manufactured illegally by underground labs in the United States and abroad.
“Someone with a serious medical condition could be taking a dangerous risk by dealing with these vendors.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI) says it has made Internet pharmacy fraud one of its top health care fraud priorities, coordinating efforts with state, local and overseas law enforcement agencies. The FBI estimates more than 80,000 web sites currently sell ad space, to enable visitors to place orders through illegal pharmacies. Most of these offers are sent as spam e-mail.
How to tell if an online pharmacy is legitimate:
• If it requires a written prescription from a licensed medical doctor.
• Requires a consumer’s detailed medical history.
• Uses secure website connections for transactions.
• Posts details about privacy policies, payment and shipping fees.
Consumers also should check that an online pharmacy is certified by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy by e-mail at exec-office@
