The Growing Threat Of Black Market Covid-19 Vaccination Cards In New Jersey

As we move into a post-covid world, the population is beginning to divide. On one side, we have the unvaccinated; unsure about the safety of big pharma’s latest creation, and reluctant to rely on anything other than their own immune systems. On the other side, we have the fully vaccinated; individuals who are ready to enjoy the social interactiveness of normal society once again. Right away, this divide in society is clearly an issue. Unvaccinated individuals may believe that they are being demoted to “second-class citizens” if they are prevented from doing certain things without verification of a vaccine.

Following the age-old principles of supply and demand, the black market has an answer for these unvaccinated individuals: fake vaccine verification cards. That’s right, criminals have emerged with fake vaccine cards that allow people to falsely advertise their vaccination status, even if they haven’t had the jab. If this sounds like a good solution, you should know that New Jersey has recently taken a very serious stance against these fake IDs, and you could face serious penalties for simply possessing one.

If you are facing charges related to fake vaccine verification cards, you should get in touch with a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. This is a relatively new area of the law, but a legal professional can still help you avoid consequences with proven defense strategies.

New Jersey Creates Laws to Combat Fake Vaccine Verification Cards 

In response to a growing problem, New Jersey lawmakers have introduced new laws that would severely punish anyone producing, selling, or using fake vaccine verification cards. While this bill hasn’t been passed yet, it could become a law soon.

Under the bill, Democratic lawmakers have suggested that anyone who sells, offers to sell, or makes fake vaccine cards will be charged with a second-degree crime. The maximum prison sentence would be ten years, and the fine would be up to $150,000. If you possess a fake card, you would face an 18-month prison sentence and a fine of $10,000 under this new law.

Concerns About Fraud 

Because of the nature of genuine CDC verification cards, there is considerable concern about fraud across the United States. Put simply, these cards are extremely easy to copy. It is a cardboard square with no special verification features, and this has allowed numerous criminals to create extremely authentic copies. There are even instructions online that people can use to create their own.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today 

For help from a skilled New Jersey criminal defense lawyer, contact Phillip J. Murphy. Thanks to a wealth of experience in a variety of criminal cases, we are well-positioned to help with any criminal charges you may be facing. This includes charges related to vaccine verification cards. Simply wanting to participate in society shouldn’t result in needless criminal consequences, especially if you feel like you’re being treated like a second-class citizen. Reach out and book your consultation today.

Sources:

nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/covid-vaccination-card-fraud-prompts-cdc-action-rcna802

newsweek.com/fake-covid-vaccine-card-bill-10-years-jail-150000-fine-new-jersey-1591595