In a groundbreaking move to curb examination fraud, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has launched a series of decoy websites to expose and trap candidates attempting to cheat during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). This innovative strategy led to the identification of 180 candidates who had fallen victim to fraudulent operators promising leaked exam questions and score manipulation. The candidates had paid significant amounts, ranging from N30,000 and above, in exchange for these non-existent services.
The initiative was unveiled by JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, during a press briefing held in Bwari, Abuja, after his visit to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) center. These decoy websites, designed to replicate the fraudulent platforms commonly used by exam cheats, successfully diverted unsuspecting candidates. By engaging with these sites, the candidates unknowingly became part of an operation to expose the dark underworld of exam malpractice.
The goal of this operation is clear: to dismantle the growing culture of examination fraud and restore integrity to the UTME and Direct Entry admission processes. According to Prof. Oloyede, the fraudulent sites had become a serious threat to the educational system, with many candidates seeking shortcuts to success. The board’s creation of these decoy platforms is a response to the increasing sophistication of fraudsters who exploit desperate students looking to secure admission through dishonest means.
“JAMB is determined to protect the integrity of the UTME. These fraudulent operators promise everything from leaked questions to score manipulation, but in the end, they only deceive and exploit vulnerable candidates,” Prof. Oloyede stated. He further explained that the sting.
operation was part of a broader effort to create awareness about the dangers of participating in exam malpractice and the legal consequences that await offenders.
The 180 candidates identified through the operation will now face serious consequences. Prof. Oloyede emphasized that the candidates involved in the fraud would be sanctioned according to the existing rules on examination malpractice. Potential penalties include the cancellation of their UTME and Direct Entry results, as well as the possibility of legal prosecution. This serves as a stern warning to other candidates who might consider engaging in similar fraudulent activities.
The Board’s commitment to upholding the standards of the examination system has never been stronger. Prof. Oloyede reassured the public that JAMB would not tolerate any attempts to compromise the credibility of the UTME. “We will continue to invest in innovative solutions to keep fraudsters at bay,” he stated, reinforcing JAMB’s zero-tolerance policy toward exam malpractice.
In addition to the decoy websites, JAMB has also been focused on advancing its technological capabilities to enhance examination security. The 2025 Mock-UTME, held earlier this year, served as both a preparatory exercise for candidates and a testing ground for new technologies aimed at improving the conduct of exams. These advancements include tighter monitoring systems and upgraded security protocols designed to minimize the chances of cheating.
Prof. Oloyede noted that every year, as JAMB rolls out new measures to combat fraud, fraudsters continuously adapt their tactics. However, he assured the public that JAMB is committed to staying one step ahead of those attempting to undermine the examination process. “Our technological innovations, including the Mock-UTME, are designed to test our new security measures and provide a better experience for all candidates,” he explained.
Beyond just preventing exam malpractice, Prof. Oloyede took the opportunity to remind educational institutions and the public about the importance of fostering a culture of ethical academic practices. He urged schools to stop focusing solely on achieving high UTME scores and to encourage students to prioritize their studies and personal development.
“The pursuit of high scores at all costs leads to unethical behavior,” he warned. “Educational institutions must encourage students to focus on learning rather than on shortcuts to success.”
Prof. Oloyede also addressed the candidates, urging them to steer clear of fraudulent platforms promising easy success. He stated, “JAMB is watching, and anyone who engages in, supports, or condones exam malpractice will face severe consequences.”
This strong message is meant to reaffirm JAMB’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the UTME process and ensuring that candidates who earn their results do so through honest
Beyond just preventing exam malpractice, Prof. Oloyede took the opportunity to remind educational institutions and the public about the importance of fostering a culture of ethical academic practices. He urged schools to stop focusing solely on achieving high UTME scores and to encourage students to prioritize their studies and personal development.
“The pursuit of high scores at all costs leads to unethical behavior,” he warned. “Educational institutions must encourage students to focus on learning rather than on shortcuts to success.”
Prof. Oloyede also addressed the candidates, urging them to steer clear of fraudulent platforms promising easy success. He stated, “JAMB is watching, and anyone who engages in, supports, or condones exam malpractice will face severe consequences.”
This strong message is meant to reaffirm JAMB’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the UTME process and ensuring that candidates who earn their results do so through honest
