Scam library
Fake online pharmacies
A site posing as a pharmacy sells nonexistent, counterfeit, or unverified medicines.
What it looks like
Fictional example: Prescription medicines shipped today, no prescription needed. Order privately at example.com/pharmacy.
Fictional example: Your usual medicine is available without a consultation. Pay by crypto for immediate dispatch.
How it works
A website imitates a licensed pharmacy and offers prescription medicines with few checks. It may take payment without delivery or send products whose contents and origin are unreliable. It can also collect health, identity, and payment information.
Warning signs
- Prescription-only medicine is offered without a valid prescription.
- You cannot verify a pharmacy license or physical address.
- No licensed pharmacist is available for questions.
- Packaging or medicine differs unexpectedly from what was prescribed.
If you got one of these
- Verify the pharmacy through your state board of pharmacy.
- Use fda.gov guidance to check an online pharmacy before buying.
- Ask your pharmacist or prescriber about an unfamiliar seller or product.
- Do not use suspicious medicine until a pharmacist or clinician has advised you.
If you already paid or shared something
- Ask your card issuer or bank about recovering payment and protecting exposed details.
- Keep the packaging, order records, and product details; report the seller through fda.gov.
- If you took the product, contact a clinician or pharmacist; seek urgent care for serious symptoms.
Who gets targeted
People seeking affordable medicines, managing shortages, or looking for convenient and private access to treatment.