GPhC investigating ‘fake’ website using pharmacist's name
The regulator is examining the "website facade" set up by Teeside University to research the sale of fake medicines
EXCLUSIVE
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) is making enquiries into a “fake” online pharmacy that listed a pharmacist as its “current duty independent prescriber” without asking his permission.
The Express4UPharmacy website, set up by Teesside University as part of a project to research the sale of fake medicines, named Graham Stretch on its “About Us” page, along with his GPhC registration number.
Dr Stretch told C+D on Monday (January 25) that he had not given his permission for the website to use his details.
@Cleverestcookie @CandDSamuel they research online pharmacy, and set up a fake site to monitor users behaviour. OK, but don't use my details
— Graham Stretch (@GrahamStretch) January 25, 2016
Teesside University told C+D it had set up the “website facade” to collect data as part of research conducted alongside a number of stakeholders, including Interpol.
The website's terms and conditions stated that it is run by a "group of researchers who collect and analyse data resembling legal and illegal online drug stores and provide awareness to consumers".
Dr Stretch’s name was published on a draft page not included on the main website, the university said.
It has since taken the website down while it completes an investigation, it added.
Dr Stretch told C+D that, even though the page was not part of the website, he was originally able to access it through a Google search.
He is still able to view a Google search page that lists him as the prescriber for the fake website, even though the university has since taken the page down, he added.
The GPhC told C+D on Tuesday (January 26) it is “aware” of the matter and is making “inquiries”.
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