U.S. Attorney Warns Public About Fraudulent Face Mask Documents

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin today advised the public that fraudulent cards and other documents bearing the Department of Justice seal are being distributed around the country with written advisories that persons are exempt from COVID-19-related face mask requirements.

There have been reports of individuals handing out cards claiming that the bearer is exempt from face mask requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Department of Justice also is aware of postings or flyers on the Internet making similar claims.  Many of these documents include the Department’s seal.  The following is an example of one such card that has been distributed in another state:

These documents were not issued by the Department, and the Department does not endorse them.  The Department also has not granted permission for the use of its seal for this purpose.  Misuse of the Department seal is a federal crime.

The Department urges the public not to rely on the information contained in these documents and to visit https://www.ada.gov/ for ADA information issued by the Department.

For more information and technical assistance about the ADA, please contact the ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY).