The Analytical Expertise Center (AEC) under the Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan has issued a formal warning regarding fraudulent activities targeting citizens on social media. Scammers are reportedly using the name of the AEC to disseminate false information and forged documents to deceive the public.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the fraudulent schemes involve claims that the AEC is collaborating with a fictitious entity called the "Sandoz Pharma Department" to recruit "barcode operators." The scammers falsely claim that candidates' personal data is being registered in the AEC's internal database.
"We state with full responsibility that this information is false and fabricated," the AEC stated in an official release. The center highlighted several inconsistencies in the forged documents, including the use of non-existent personnel names and incorrect dates. Furthermore, the scammers have been contacting individuals, posing as human resources coordinators, and demanding payments under the guise of "contract processing fees."
The AEC clarified that it does not operate any private companies, including any "Sandoz Pharma" entity, nor does it charge fees for recruitment processes. The center also noted that it is not responsible for issuing barcodes (GTIN/EAN) for pharmaceutical products, rendering the job description of a "barcode operator" entirely baseless.
The Analytical Expertise Center is a regulatory body responsible for the quality control and registration of pharmaceutical products in Azerbaijan. It operates under the Ministry of Health and maintains strict protocols for recruitment and official communication. The center has advised citizens to rely solely on its official website and verified social media channels for job openings and official announcements.
The AEC confirmed that it will refer the matter to the relevant state authorities to initiate legal proceedings against those responsible for the fraud. Citizens are strongly urged not to share personal information or transfer funds to unknown individuals claiming to represent the center.
