Location: Hong Kong and Macau
Event: U.S. Homeland Security Investigations urges Americans to beware of individuals and criminal organizations seeking to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic. These individuals and organizations are attempting to capitalize on public demand for access to vaccines and treatments by illegally introducing counterfeit versions into U.S. and global marketplaces. The sale and distribution of counterfeit vaccines and medical treatments could stop or delay medical care to those in need and endanger the lives of U.S. and international consumers.
Please beware of the following:
- Websites or individuals selling products claiming to be vaccines;
- Pharmaceutical or vaccine information with misspellings or in a foreign language;
- Individuals requesting personal or banking information in exchange for vaccine information or COVID-19 products;
- Vaccines or prescription pharmaceuticals from third-party marketplaces or social media platforms
These activities compromise legitimate trade and financial systems, threaten the integrity of U.S. borders, and endanger the safety and security of the American people. For more information, please see U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations – Operation Stolen Promise.
Actions to Take:
- Report suspected illicit activity related to COVID-19 by email at covid19fraud@dhs.gov.
Assistance:
- U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau
+852 2841-2211
+852 2523-9011 (after hours)
ACSHK@state.gov - State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 - Hong Kong Country Information
- Macau Country Information
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
