Major flaw in Qld’s Covid check-in app could allow the unvaccinated to game system

A loophole in Queensland’s Covid check-in app could allow someone to fraudulently pretend they’re vaccinated and enter venues after the December 17 mandate.

A potential flaw has been exposed in Queensland’s Covid check-in app, allowing the unvaccinated to fraudulently claim they have received both jabs.

The loophole allows unvaccinated people to upload someone else’s vaccine certificate to their personal check-in app, pretending they have received both doses of the vaccine.

The feature is legitimately used to add dependants and family members to your device by logging into their MyGov account.

However, it can easily be misused and allow unvaccinated people to pose as someone else when requested to prove their vaccine status.

The loophole would grant them entry to venues which would have otherwise refused them after the December 17 vaccine mandate.

It is feared anti-vaxxers will exploit the glitch and attend venues such as bars, restaurants and live sport and music, as well as visiting vulnerable people in facilities such as hospitals and aged care.

Earlier today, Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said unfortunately it was human nature that some people will try and game the system.

“You know, it’s human nature and some people just don’t want to comply, and we’ve seen that throughout the pandemic,” Ms D’Ath said.

Staff of Housing and Public Works Minister, Leanne Enoch confirmed they were aware of the issue.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Department said anyone attempting to use the loophole would be committing a criminal offence.

“Deliberately and fraudulently sharing or using a certificate that is not your own – be it paper, electronic or otherwise – would be considered a criminal offence.”

“While it is technically possible to connect someone else’s COVID-19 vaccination to the Check In Qld app, this requires permission or access of the second party to log into their Medicare or MyGov account.”

It is unknown if the loophole will be closed before the December 17 deadline.

Originally published as Major flaw in Qld’s Covid check-in app could allow the unvaccinated to game system