The RCMP is warning the public of a new type of internet crime emerging over the last few years.
Several thousand websites are now selling counterfeit and unauthorized drugs to Canadians.
Many websites pretend to be Canadian based pharmacies and trick the consumer into trusting their products.
Victims money is taken over the web in exchange for fake pharmaceutical drugs. In most cases, the consumer gets ripped off.
The RCMP says the counterfeit drug industry is growing, with sales in the billions of dollars and people in Newfoundland and Labrador are victims as much as the rest of the world.
The RCMP, in conjunction with other federal and worldwide enforcement agencies, have been successful in identifying and charging some criminal elements but there are still more breaking the law.
Most counterfeit pills seized by the RCMP are shipped through mail centres or couriers in small or large quantities.
The RCMP advises to only obtain prescriptions from a medical doctor and have them filled by a pharmacist.
"Counterfeiters support child labour and abuse and these sources of pills are not safe," the RCMP warn in a news release. "Why would you risk your life or the lives of those you love?"
Anyone aware of such a crime can contact their local police detachment or CrimeS toppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). Tips can also be sent by text at TIP190 or sent through a secure website to tips@www.nlcrimestoppers.com.
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