"Our main message is that vaccines cannot be sold ‘online’and that only governments can distribute them, said Rory Corcoran, deputy director of anti-illicit markets at the international police organization, told EFE.

Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock emphasised that "anyone who orders an‘ online ’vaccine instead of getting it from their national supplier is buying a fake product.”

Corcoran also explained that there is an "escalation" of fraud with vaccines against the new coronavirus and that criminals are trying to take advantage of vulnerable people.

The police organisation collected information on various fraud vaccine attempts to be distributed by different health organisations, including nursing homes.

Interpol expects, in the coming months, that these illegal practices will increase, especially in developing countries, where people are already receiving ‘online’ messages saying that vaccines can be purchased on the Internet.

An emerging trend is also the creation of illegal websites with logos from well-known pharmaceutical companies that allow pre-orders for vaccines to be made.

In some cases, payment of the Covid-19 vaccine in bitcoins is proposed.

According to Rory Corcoran, "criminals don't just want to sell vaccines, but also steal personal information."

In the dismantled networks in China and South Africa, Interpol estimates that its members have raised around two million euros. Investigations continue to point to possible developments in criminal activity.