Covid-19 Vaccines Available On Sale Illegally; Find Out Cost

Covid-19 vaccines and counterfeit vaccine cards are now on sale in the illegal market amidst warning issued by government agencies to citizens to stop posting photos of their vaccine cards on social media to avoid being targeted by fraudsters.

Security researchers at cybersecurity firm Check Point Software said they've found listings for Covid-19 vaccines from brands, such as AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, for up to $1,000 a dose, and at least 20 vaccine certificates for $200 each.

Even though they are billed as Covid-19 vaccines, Check Point spokesperson told CNN Business that it's uncertain if the vaccines are authentic. But going by the photos of packaging and medical certificates, "they appear to be legitimate."

Advertisements for vaccines on the dark web have gone up by 300 per cent in the past three months, according to a report.

It is said that the counterfeit products are being sold to people who need to fly, cross borders, begin a new job or engage in activities that may require someone to produce proof of vaccination.

Just like on the real ones, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) logo, including a photo of an eagle, is featured on the top right corner of the fake vaccine cards.

The Check Point spokesperson said the company estimates "vendors are capable of pumping out fake vaccination cards by the thousands, if not tens of thousands, based on requests."

This comes days after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General alerted people about fraud schemes related to Covid-19. They informed the public that fraudsters are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to perpetrate Covid-19-related scams.

Scammers are offering unapproved Covid-19 tests, HHS grants, and Medicare prescription cards in exchange for personal details like medicare information. If they get access to the personal information, it can be used to fraudulently bill federal health care programs and commit medical identity theft.

The government agency has shared various steps to "protect yourself." One of them is a warning to not share photos of Covid-19 vaccination cards on social media. Posting content that includes date of birth, health care details or other personally identifiable information can be used to steal identity.