In a strategic move to combat examination malpractice, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has launched decoy websites that successfully identified 180 candidates who paid as much as ₦30,000 for purported leaked exam content and inflated scores ahead of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
This revelation was made by JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, during a press briefing in Bwari, Abuja, following his inspection of a Computer-Based Test (CBT) centre. He explained that the decoy websites were deliberately designed to mirror those used by fraudsters in order to lure and expose candidates attempting to circumvent the examination process through illegal means.
“JAMB has identified no fewer than 180 candidates who have paid amounts ranging from ₦30,000 and above to these fraudulent sites in exchange for non-existent services, such as ‘leaked examination items’ and score augmentation,” said Prof. Oloyede.
“These sites are traps designed to reduce the growing incidence of fraud and corruption among the nation’s youth.”
The Board has confirmed that candidates found guilty of engaging with these fraudulent platforms will face firm penalties, including the cancellation of their UTME and Direct Entry results, and possible legal prosecution.
“These candidates will face sanctions that may include the cancellation of their UTME and Direct Entry results, as well as potential legal prosecution,” Prof. Oloyede affirmed.
He stressed that JAMB holds a legal mandate to manage and safeguard the integrity of the UTME and Direct Entry processes. In that regard, the Board remains committed to utilising innovative approaches to bolster transparency and security.
He also highlighted the importance of the 2025 Mock-UTME, describing it as a dual-purpose tool that not only helped candidates prepare but also allowed JAMB to test new technologies aimed at curbing malpractice.
“The mock exercise allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of newly introduced measures aimed at improving examination conduct and security. Each year, as we implement new strategies to combat examination malpractice, fraudsters also adapt their tactics. Therefore, we must consistently stay one step ahead,” he explained.
Addressing the broader educational landscape, Prof. Oloyede cautioned schools against placing undue pressure on students to attain inflated scores at any cost. He reiterated that the UTME is not a school-based examination and urged institutions to shift their focus towards academic integrity and student development.
“Educational institutions must abandon the pursuit of ‘high-score glory’ and encourage students to focus on their studies,” he stated.
Candidates have similarly been warned to avoid any platforms that offer unrealistic assurances of success, with the Board making it clear that strict action will be taken against anyone involved in or supporting examination malpractice.