The New York State Department’s Division of Consumer Protection warned of the significant increase in the number of consumers using online pharmacies in recent years, driven primarily by perceptions of convenience, lower prices and product availability.
Despite the potential benefits, there are significant concerns related to these businesses, including the prevalence of fraudulent websites, unlicensed pharmacies, the risk of receiving unsafe medications, fraud, and identity theft.
As New Yorkers increasingly turn to online pharmacies to purchase medications, the Division of Consumer Protection offers key measures to avoid dangerous risks.
“Access to safe and affordable medications is essential for all New Yorkers. While online pharmacies can offer convenience, it is important to be cautious and avoid fraudulent websites that can endanger both health and finances,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley.
“The Division of Consumer Protection is committed to educating and supporting residents so they can make informed decisions when new trends, like online pharmacies, gain popularity, and to confidently protect their health and their hard-earned money.”
“Buying prescription medications from an illicit online pharmacy is dangerous and can even be deadly,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
“Licensed pharmacists are highly qualified medical professionals who understand the complexities of human physiology and how certain medications interact with a person’s biology and other medications. “Every person who receives a prescription deserves peace of mind knowing that they are getting exactly the medication prescribed by a licensed physician and that the medication is approved, properly dosed, and safe.”
“The New York State Department of Health will continue to work with the New York State Department of State to ensure that people have the information necessary to identify and report illicit online pharmacies and their dangerous improper practices.”
What you should know about online pharmacies
An online pharmacy is one that operates over the Internet and mails prescription medications to its customers. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are approximately 35,000 active online pharmacy websites worldwide; a significant number of them operate in violation of state or federal laws and standards of professional practice.
Although government agencies and private organizations have worked hard to curb the illegal sale of prescription drugs online, the problem persists.
To appear legitimate, these illicit online pharmacies use professional-looking website designs.
They promote fake testimonials and celebrity endorsements generated through “deepfakes” on social media and other websites, as well as using images of doctors or other healthcare professionals to create a false impression of credibility and trust, all while selling unnecessary, dangerous, counterfeit or incorrectly labeled medications.
Risks Associated with Illicit Online Pharmacies
– Unsafe medications:
The FDA has warned that there are many unsafe online pharmacies that claim to sell prescription drugs, but whose products may be counterfeits or illegally prepared drugs.
In October 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a public safety alert noting an increase in illegal online pharmacies selling and shipping counterfeit pills—made with fentanyl and methamphetamine—to unsuspecting customers in the United States.
The FBI issued a similar alert in 2025, warning the public about fraudulently prepared medicines that purportedly contained popular weight loss drugs but actually lacked the claimed active ingredient, had high levels of impurities, or contained unsafe or unapproved substances.
Counterfeit or fraudulently prepared medicines can be harmful to health as they may contain ingredients that cause serious risks, harmful side effects or ineffective treatments.
– Scams and identity theft:
Online pharmacy scams often focus on prescription medications that are expensive, in high demand, or not covered by insurance plans. By being tempted by attractive offers or easy access, you could expose yourself to identity theft by entering your personal information on these fraudulent websites.
Often, these illegal sites exist for the purpose of collecting personal, financial, and medical information to commit identity theft.
Watch for these online pharmacy red flags:
• Medications that do not require a prescription
• Excessively discounted prices
• Online pharmacies that do not have a licensed pharmacist to answer questions and concerns
• Websites that do not clearly state that they will not share your personal information
What to look for when ordering from an online pharmacy
– License and accreditation:
Verify that you are purchasing prescription medications from a licensed online pharmacy. Online pharmacies that ship to New York State must register with the New York Board of Pharmacy.
You can consult https://eservices.nysed.gov/professions/verification-search to confirm that your preferred provider is licensed, ensuring compliance with New York state and federal laws regarding digital prescriptions and telehealth.
– Physical location:
Look for a physical address and phone number in the US, not just an email address or contact form.
– Access to a pharmacist:
Legitimate pharmacies must offer access to a licensed pharmacist to answer questions. Be sure to consult your doctor and get a prescription before starting any new medication. A legitimate online pharmacy will not sell medications without a prescription.
– Secure payment method:
Legitimate online pharmacies offer the option to pay by credit card, which provides better protection against fraud.
– Privacy policies:
Look for privacy policies that clearly state that the company will not sell your personal information.
For more information on how to buy medications online safely, check out the program BeSafeRx from the FDA.
How to report fake online pharmacies
Report fake online pharmacies to the FDA Internet Pharmacy Working Group (the primary federal agency for reporting the sale of counterfeit, fraudulent, or unsafe drugs online) at [email protected] or by calling 855-543-3784.
To file a complaint against a pharmacist or pharmacy located in New York State, contact the Office of Professional Discipline (NYS Office of Professional Discipline) or with the Division of Consumer Protection of the New York State Department.
