Weed Out The Fake: Bogus Site Targets Newly Licensed Maltese Cannabis Association
Just days after the historic first licenses were granted to two cannabis associations in Malta, a fake site impersonating one of the clubs already popped up.
“Warning: Phishing Alert!” ARUC, Malta’s cannabis authority, said in a warning online on Friday.
“ARUC has noted that unknown third parties are attempting to impersonate one of the associations granted an operating permit. We remind prospective members that the only approved associations are those found on our website.”
The website, impersonating Ta’ Zelli, features the tagline “cannabis information about Malta” as well as several different tabs, including one where individuals can enquire about memberships.
It also offers advertising on its site, as well as a Blog Post section, featuring one blog post by author “Dan S.”
Police have been informed and are set to investigate the site.
Screenshot from the bogus site
Speaking to Lovin Malta, ARUC Chairman Leonid McKay emphasised that the authority will be monitoring associations and any possible infringements as the rollout towards a regulated system begins.
“The Authority has consistently warned that any form of commercialisation and promotion of the sector goes against the principles of Harm Reduction and Public Health,” he said.
“Constant monitoring is being done to ensure compliance by licensed associations. At the same time, the Authority will not allow rogue third parties to usurp the reputation of good governance that the associations are adhering to as Malta has adopted a not-for-profit approach. The Authority has requested the police to investigate this matter.”
The associations are expected to be up and running next year, with at least four more operational licenses for other clubs in the works.
Here are some key details for Malta’s approach to harm reduction cannabis associations.
- A maximum of 500 club members
- Cannot be located within 250 metres of a school or ‘youth centre’
- No advertising
- Cannot use the word ‘cannabis’ in the club’s name, or anything that would ‘incite use’
- At least two club founders with no prior convictions of money laundering
- Clubs must have a legal representative
- Club administrators have to be residents for at least five years
- All cannabis has to be cultivated by the club itself (out of public view)
- Registration fee of €1,000
- License fee starting at €8,750
- Initial licenses valid for one year, with three year renewals
- Labelling requirements
- Ongoing government auditing
- Product testing
- THC percentage caps for consumers 18-20 years old
- Consumers can only have a membership at one club at a time
- Revenue dispersal requirements
Will you be signing up for a legit cannabis association when they open registration?
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