The International Criminal Police Organization, INTERPOL, has issued a notice, warning its 194 countries of potential criminal activity in relation to the falsification, theft and illegal advertising of COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
INTERPOL Secretary General, Jürgen Stock in a statement on Wednesday issued a statement, saying there is a need for coordination between law enforcement and health regulatory bodies who will also play a vital role to ensure the safety of individuals and wellbeing of communities are protected.
“Criminal networks will also be targeting unsuspecting members of the public via fake websites and false cures, which could pose a significant risk to their health, even their lives.”
“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.”
According to an analysis by the INTERPOL’s Cybercrime Unit, 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.
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INTERPOL therefore advised members of the public to take special care when going online to search for medical equipment or medicines.
It urged the public to always check with their national health authorities or the World Health Organization for the latest health advice in relation to COVID-19.
The organization also advised vigilance and being wary of offers which appear too good to be true in order to avoid falling victim to online scams.