Disturbing new tactic adopted by anti-maskers putting us all at risk
<p dir="ltr"><span>Throughout the pandemic, COVID-deniers and conspiracy theorists have been adopting a range of unusual and dangerous tactics to avoid sticking to lockdown rules and distancing guidelines. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Now, anti-maskers have resorted to mocking up fake exemption stickers in what is being called a "disturbing" strategy to avoid important coronavirus regulations. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The news comes alongside whispers of an app which enables users to create fake QR code check-in pages to give the false idea they have recorded their presence into a premises. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While mask exemption stickers or badges are available, you must have a valid medical excuse from your GP to gain access to one. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Queensland Health Minister Yvette D’Ath has called out rule breakers in her state who are said to have created fraudulent mask exemption badges.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“People shouldn’t be finding ways to work around the rules,” Ms D’Ath said to Channel 9.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“If you don’t have a mask on, you are risking yourself getting the virus; it is not worth trying to come up with a fake excuse not to wear a mask.”</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>She also expressed her concern about the fake QR code check-in app that is being passed around on conspiracy theorist online forums. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The app can duplicate pages for NSW, Queensland and Victoria, giving users the tick to enter a premise, without sending their details to the state government, and will be unable to trace close contact COVID-19 cases. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“This simple workaround creates what looks like a covid QR tick of approval, but it doesn’t send your private information to the government,” one website plugging the app stated.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>
