Talk of people falsely reporting positive rapid antigen tests to authorities have become real for Brad Hazzard.
The NSW health minister on Tuesday revealed he had received multiple messages from authorities on Monday and Tuesday about a positive COVID-19 test that didn't exist.
It followed reports he had received that others were being subjected to false reports submitted by others.
"I'd heard those reports, I can now speak from personal experience," he told reporters on Tuesday.
"It is juvenile, it is moronic, but it's also so disappointing that you would actually undermine the incredibly hardworking public health team here in NSW."
Reporting a positive RAT result can be done through a user's Service NSW account.
But an account isn't necessary. A person can submit a result on the web form for themselves or on behalf of another person.
Each report requires a declaration that the user understands giving false or misleading information is a serious crime, carrying fines or jail time.
Mr Hazzard said a $5000 is also possible for any person who misrepresents facts to NSW Health.
"The police will come hunting," he said.
"When you're telling your friends down at the pub how smart you are, perhaps they'll tell you how stupid you are.
"Just cease all that activity, it's quite moronic."
All states except Western Australia accept positive RAT reports via online forms.
South Australia requires a positive case to verify their mobile phone number.
Like NSW, Tasmania requires users to sign a declaration that acknowledges heavy fines apply to those making false reports.
