Airlines Have New Security Threat: Fake COVID-19 Test Certificates

While airlines are working every possible angle to resume international operations, they could be facing a new digital security issue. Some airlines are reporting dealing with agents selling fake COVID-19 test certificates, which could allow untested passengers to fly without ever getting a negative prognosis.

Restoring international travel is at the core of every airline’s recovery plan. However, a new digital threat could create major problems before borders even begin to reopen to flyers. The Wall Street Journal reports multiple countries are experiencing problems with passengers carrying fake COVID-19 test certificates.

Fake Test Certificate Arrests Made in Europe, Indonesia and Zimbabwe

In nearly every situation, those who are allowed to travel internationally must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 exam, as well as a quarantine plan. Many of these certificates are based around the International Air Transport Association’s Travel Pass framework, which is currently operating with certain airlines as a health passport.

But the system isn’t completely without problems, as some travelers are boarding aircraft with fake certificates. The IATA says they have discovered fake certificates coming from multiple nations, including Afghanistan, Brazil and France. Furthermore, authorities in several nations – such as Spain, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe – have also made arrests related to fake certificates.

Making issues worse, airlines now say that despite their rush to resume international routes, their staff is not prepared to deal with fake certificates. Furthermore, their issues could be made worse when countries start to demand proof of vaccination prior to travel.

Part of the issue could lie in the development of digital health passports. Both the IATA and the Commons Foundation are testing and deploying their own versions of digital apps which authenticate COVID-19 test results. This creates a logistical problem for frontline workers who must determine a real test certificate from a fake.

White House Won’t Get Involved in Health Transport Standard Debate

The news comes as the White House announced they will stay on the sidelines on determining a standard for digital health passports. In a previous statement, officials in the Biden administration have stated they won’t favor one technology for another, while in a separate appearance, Dr. Anthony Fauci said the U.S. would not create a digital health passport mandate.