Consumers across the UK are being warned about a surge in fraudulent online pharmacies selling counterfeit or dangerous medications. These scams not only waste money but also pose serious health risks to unsuspecting buyers.
The Growing Threat of Fake Pharmacies
With more people turning to the internet for convenience, fake online pharmacies have proliferated, offering everything from prescription painkillers to weight-loss drugs at suspiciously low prices. Many operate without proper licensing, selling unregulated or even fake medications that can be harmful.
How to Spot a Scam Pharmacy
- Check for a registered pharmacy logo: Legitimate UK online pharmacies display the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) logo.
- Requires a prescription: Any site offering prescription drugs without requiring a valid prescription is likely a scam.
- Too-good-to-be-true prices: Extremely low prices are a major red flag.
- No physical address: Reputable pharmacies provide verifiable contact details.
Protecting Yourself from Medication Scams
Always verify an online pharmacy through the GPhC website before making a purchase. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Experts advise sticking to well-known, established pharmacies and avoiding deals that seem too good to be true. Your health isn't worth the risk.
