False claims in texts, emails led to misuse of US vaccine codes intended for those in need

The Covid-19 vaccine site at Dodger Stadium on Jan 30, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. The access codes ping-ponging across two of California's largest metropolitan areas were actually a key part of a programme designed to help get lifesaving Covid-19 vaccines into California neighbourhoods hit hardest by the pandemic. Intended to address inequities in the distribution of the vaccine, the program instead was being misused – often unwittingly – by people far outside the intended communities. — Los Angeles Times/TNS

In Los Angeles, the rumour spread like wildfire through group texts and email chains: The government was testing the appointment system at a new Covid-19 vaccination site at Cal State L.A., and you could help by using a special access code to sign up for a shot.

In the Bay Area, the gossip took a slightly different form: Doses at the Oakland Coliseum were about to expire, and you could do your part by making an appointment, again, with a special access code.