Fake COVID-19 Vaccines Found in Poland and Mexico

Vaccines just rolled out a few months ago, and it comes as no surprise that there are finally fraudulent COVID-19 vaccines on the market. This has become the latest attempt by criminals to exploit the global vaccination campaign.

In many countries outside of the U.S., the vaccines are hard to come by, and some people are so desperate that they will pay top dollar for a vaccination. Criminals are taking full advantage of this, and  now, Pfizer has become the target of such fraudulent activities.

Fake Pfizer Vaccines Found in Poland and Mexico

Pfizer recently discovered knock-off vials in Mexico and Poland with their brand name on the bottles. Pfizer seized the counterfeit vaccines and tested them to ensure they were fake.

Pfizer released the following statement: “We are cognizant that in this type of environment – fueled by the ease and convenience of e-commerce and anonymity afforded by the Internet – there will be an increase in the prevalence of fraud, counterfeit and other illicit activity as it relates to vaccines and treatments for COVID-19.”

Pfizer also stressed that if you see the vaccine being sold online, report it and do NOT purchase it. No vaccines are or will be available for direct online purchase.

Many Mexicans Received a Fake COVID-19 Vaccine

A clinic in Mexico was found charging $1,000 per dose and already injected 80 people with the “vaccine.” The counterfeit vaccine also donned Pfizer’s name on the bottle. The vials were discovered in a beach-style beer cooler, and the lot numbers did not match up with the lot numbers that were originally given to the state.

It is not known what was in the solution, but all of the people that received the injection are currently safe and doing well.

Fake COVID-19 Vaccines Seized in Poland

Luckily, no one received this fraudulent vaccine in Poland. Authorities seized the product from a man’s apartment before it could be distributed and injected. Pfizer discovered that the solution in these vials was most likely an anti-wrinkle treatment.

Other Fraudulent Activity Surrounding the Vaccine

According to government records, there have already been dozens of websites that have been taken down in the United States, Mexico, and other countries for selling vaccines online or claiming an affiliation with the approved vaccine manufacturers. Officials say that these websites aim to steal consumers’ personal information to be used in identity fraud schemes.

Luckily, there have been zero reports of fraudulent vaccines that have been found in the U.S., but that does not necessarily mean they are not out there. It’s important to always use your best judgment, and check the FDA website before booking an appointment.

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