Russia’s Agricultural Watchdog Launches App to Verify Certificate Authenticity
Scanning a QR code through the new app is designed to prevent users from landing on fake websites or dealing with forged documents.
Russia’s Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance, Rosselkhoznadzor, has launched a free mobile application, the Argus-Fito system, to confirm the authenticity of issued certificates. Using the app, users can verify quarantine, phytosanitary, and other related documents, the agency’s press service told IT-Russia.
According to Rosselkhoznadzor, scanning a QR code with the app prevents redirection to fraudulent websites that mimic official systems and helps eliminate document forgery. Users do not need to log in or register to perform a verification.
Quarantine Zones and Application Status
Beyond document checks, the app allows users to identify whether a quarantine phytosanitary zone is in place based on coordinates or the device’s geolocation. It also makes it possible to track the status of applications for certificate issuance.
Earlier, IT-Russia reported that Rosselkhoznadzor has been introducing artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicles into its inspection and oversight activities. According to the agency, these moves are already delivering tangible results.
