Interpol’s global police coordination agency has warned that organized criminal networks could be targeting coronavirus vaccines and could seek to sell fake vaccines.
France-based Interpol said on Wednesday it had issued a global alert to law enforcement agencies in its 194 member countries, warning them to prepare for organized crime networks targeting Covid-19 vaccines, both physically as online.
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“INTERPOL’s Orange Notice describes potential criminal activity in relation to counterfeiting, theft and illegal advertising of Covid-19 and flu vaccines, and the pandemic has already triggered unprecedented opportunistic and predatory criminal behavior,” read in a statement from Interpol.
“It also includes examples of crimes where people have been advertising, selling and administering bogus vaccines,” he added.
The government agency said there is a need for coordination between law enforcement agencies and health regulatory agencies, which will play a vital role, in ensuring the safety of people and the well-being of communities.
Speaking on the matter, Interpol Secretary General Juergen Stock said: “As governments prepare to launch vaccines, criminal organizations plan to infiltrate or disrupt supply chains. Criminal networks will also target unsuspecting members of the public to through bogus websites and bogus cures, which could pose a significant risk to their health, including their lives. “
About the dangers online
Interpol has also advised its members of the public to be especially careful when going online to search for medical equipment or drugs amid a growing number of fraudulent activities related to the coronavirus.
“In addition to the dangers of ordering life-threatening products, an analysis by Interpol’s Cyber Crimes Unit revealed that of 3,000 websites associated with online pharmacies suspected of selling illicit drugs and medical devices, around 1,700 contained cyber threats, especially phishing. and spam malware. “the agency’s statement reads.
“To avoid falling victim to online scams, it is important to be vigilant, skeptical and safe, as offers that seem too good to be true often are. Always check with your national health authorities or the World Health Organization for the latest health news and advice regarding COVID-19, “he added.
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