New Yorkers warned about risks of using fake COVID vaccination cards

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection is warning New Yorkers about the risks of buying or using fake COVID-19 vaccination cards. Officials say as more places are requiring proof of vaccination, scammers are taking advantage of this by selling fake verification tools including fake cards, certificates, and test results.

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The New York State Division of Consumer Protection is warning New Yorkers about the risks of buying or using fake COVID-19 vaccination cards. Officials say as more places are requiring proof of vaccination, scammers are taking advantage of this by selling fake verification tools including fake cards, certificates, and test results.

Buying fake vaccine cards, making your own or filling the blanks with false information is illegal and could land you in jail. Officials say the vaccines are safe and opting for a fake vaccination card instead of getting vaccinated is a health and legal risk.

“Making or possessing fake COVID-19 vaccination cards are serious crimes. We are taking this issue very seriously due to the tremendous risk presented by these false documents," said State Police Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen. "Anyone found to be involved with forged vaccine cards will be charged and face the legal consequences.”

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has received several complaints from people reporting cases of possible fraud related to COVID-19 vaccination. They also received complaints of websites offering, for a fee, vaccine waivers and medical exemptions without seeing a doctor. The FTC is investigating these and other cases of possible vaccine fraud.

Officials warn:

• Presenting fraudulent COVID-19 vaccination cards or test results can land you in jail. Buying or making fake vaccine cards or filling in blank cards with false information is illegal and could lead to fines or even land you in jail.
• The only legitimate way to get proof of vaccination or a negative test result is to get vaccinated or to test negative.
• Protect your personal information from COVID scams. Scammers set up fraudulent websites offering fake vaccine appointments or call people claiming to be COVID surveyors to collect people’s personal information. Never give out personal information over the phone.

New Yorkers can also report vaccine-related fraud by calling 833-VAX-SCAM (833-829-7226) or emailing STOPVAXFRAUD@health.ny.gov.