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| Scam Alert Over Fake UTME Rescheduling Fee |
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned candidates not to fall for a fraudulent scheme that demands N15,700 for UTME rescheduling . The scam uses a Sterling Bank account, 8520641017, under a fake name to collect fees from anxious students .
JAMB runs the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for entry into Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges . The exam is computer-based, held once a year, and covers English plus three subject areas . English is the only compulsory subject for all candidates .
Fraudsters set up the Sterling Bank account 8520641017 to offer fake UTME rescheduling for missed exams . They ask victims to pay N15,700 via that account, claiming it will secure a new exam date . JAMB clarified it has no link to the account or its operators . The board has notified security agencies to track down the perpetrators . It also urged Sterling Bank to shut down the fraudulent account immediately .
JAMB stressed it does not charge any fees for exam rescheduling . Only candidates whose biometric data failed during verification are re-invited to retake the test at no cost . Any payment request tied to rescheduling is a scam .
Scammers also send misleading SMS using a spoofed JAMB short code . They combine ‘8863’ with the board’s real code ‘55019’ to appear official . These texts claim irregularities in candidate details and urge contact with fraudsters for fake fixes . JAMB advised candidates to ignore any message outside its verified channels .
To expose fraudsters, JAMB launched a decoy website mimicking fake “expo” sites . About 180 candidates paid up to N30,000 into this trap, hoping for leaked exam questions . Those caught will face penalties, including withheld results or legal action . JAMB reported 27 impersonators to police for sitting exams on behalf of others . It also delisted four CBT centres that failed technical standards during UTME .
A cybersecurity advisor urged early digital-safety training in schools to curb exam fraud . Counselors should coach students on spotting online scams and false promises . Such education can reduce attempts to cheat via fake sites or messages .
Some analysts link rising scams to exam stress and fierce competition for limited university spots . They say candidates feel pressure when scores and admission odds feel tilted against them .
Candidates should only use the official JAMB website, jamb.gov.ng, for updates and payments . They must ignore calls or messages from unknown numbers or unofficial platforms . Sharing scam experiences can help others stay vigilant and informed .
Experts have called on Sterling Bank to tighten monitoring of suspicious accounts and flag unusual payments . Banks should deploy fraud-detection tools to stop scam transactions before funds clear .
Security agencies are actively tracking everyone behind this fraudulent rescheduling scheme . JAMB continues to collaborate with police and tech experts to protect candidates and uphold exam integrity .
Vigilance and clear information are key to fighting UTME fraud effectively . What was your encounter with this scam? Share your tips below to help others stay safe and informed.