Interpol warns Criminal organizations set to target Covid-19 vaccines

The COVID19 pandemic has triggered unprecedented opportunistic and predatory criminal behaviour. When online, is important for everyone to be vigilant, be sceptical and be safe. Interpol Secretary-General said, Jürgen Stock

Interpol warns Criminal organizations set to target Covid-19 vaccines has warned 194 countries that criminals are planning to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains and target members of the public with fake vaccine scams as the world looks to immunize against Covid-19.
On Wednesday night the Interpol issued a global alert to its 194 member countries outlining potential criminal activity related to upcoming, large-scale Covid-19 Coronavirus vaccination programs.

Interpol also warned governments, pharmaceutical companies and logistics organizations to be aware of attempts of criminals trying to infiltrate Covid-19 vaccine supply chains.

Criminal networks will also be targeting unsuspecting members of the public via fake websites offering false cures, which could pose a significant risk to their health, even their lives, said Interpol Secretary-General Jürgen Stock.

Interpol warns Criminal organizations set to target Covid-19 vaccines and supply chain

As governments are preparing to roll out vaccines and massive Vaccination, criminal organizations are planning to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains.

The international policing body highlighted a number of threats posed by criminal activity, including the advertisement, sale and use of fake vaccines.

“It is essential that law enforcement is as prepared as possible for what will be an onslaught of all types of criminal activity linked to the Covid-19 vaccine, which is why Interpol has issued this global warning,” Stock added.

The alert also warns about the criminal threat to testing capabilities as Interpol said the importance of Covid-19 testing is likely to increase in 2021 as the world attempts to restore some degree of normality.

The alert comes as the UK announced on Wednesday the regulatory approval of Pfizer’s and BioNtech Covid vaccine. The approval means the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is the first to be approved for widespread use, having completed stage-three trials.

Stay vigilant do not buy vaccines offered by online Websites or social media or offering miraculous cures against Covid-19

With an increasing amount of COVID-related frauds, INTERPOL is also advising members of the public to take special care when going online to search for medical equipment or medicines.

In addition to the dangers of ordering potentially life-threatening products, an analysis by the INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Unit revealed that of 3,000 websites associated with online pharmacies suspected of selling illicit medicines and medical devices, around 1,700 contained cyber threats, especially phishing and spamming malware.

To avoid falling victim to online scams, it is important to be vigilant, be sceptical and be safe, as offers which appear too good to be true usually are. Always check with your national health authorities or the World Health Organization for the latest health advice in relation to COVID-19.

Scott Morrison said to do not expect approval of vaccines for Australia before January 2021

Since countries like the UK and Russia planning mass Covid-19 vaccination in the next weeks, Australia will have most likely vaccines approved in January 2021, it still not confirmed and it could be later.

Warning do not buy Covid-19 Coronavirus vaccines or medication online most likely you will become a victim of organised crime syndicates.

Follow the Australian official Scamwatch website

Scamwatch has received over 5170 scam reports mentioning the coronavirus with over $6 280 000 in reported losses since the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Common scams include phishing for personal information, online shopping, and superannuation scams.

If you have been scammed or have seen a scam, you can make a report on the Scamwatch website, and find more information about where to get help.

Scamwatch urges everyone to be cautious and remain alert to coronavirus-related scams. Scammers are hoping that you have let your guard down. Do not provide your personal, banking or superannuation details to strangers who have approached you.

Scammers may pretend to have a connection with you. So it’s important to stop and check, even when you are approached by what you think is a trusted organisation.

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