MADISON, Wis. — As more restaurants, venues, and big events start to require proof of vaccination, scammers will try to take advantage.
According to Better Business Bureau’s Southwest Wisconsin Regional Director Tiffany Schultz, there haven’t been any reports of fake vaccination cards in the region but she said that doesn’t mean those counterfeits aren’t out there.
“We want to make consumers aware that there’s always the possibility out there that scams are going to arise,” Schultz said.
Part of the problem is how easy the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine cards are to replicate.
According to several Madison area print shop owners, there’s nothing on the cards to make them secure.
“To be honest I think it would be quite easy,” said Picture Salon owner Jacke Hawley. “Depending on how they take the image there might be some resolution issues but overall it’s just black and white text.”
Schultz said of anyone purchasing a fake vaccine card, “that’s just as bad as them throwing up a fake website and stealing.”
For those who have gotten vaccinated she said it’s best to keep those cards offline, even if you cover up your private information.
In fact, you should treat your vaccine card like you would your social security card or any other government issued photo ID.
Schultz also said consumers should be wary of fake vaccine passport apps and websites asking for personal information.
“Scammers may pose as government officials offering a fake vaccine passport,” she explained.
To keep yourself protected, the BBB recommends you reach out directly to individual businesses and venues for the most accurate information regarding vaccine or COVID test requirements.
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