UTME 2024: JAMB mandates UTME applicants to confirm codes, pins on phones to prevent identity theft

The Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reiterated the requirement for UTME prospective candidates to present, on their mobile phones, the codes and pins obtained as proof of registration at Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres.

This directive, highlighted in the latest edition of the JAMB weekly bulletin issued on Monday, aims to counteract the rising issue of identity theft, recognized as a prominent tool employed by examination cheats globally to compromise exams.

JAMB emphasizes the significance of candidates displaying their profile codes and electronic Personal Identification Numbers (e-PINs), which they received via the Board’s USSD codes on their mobile phones used during profile creation. The measure is intended to enhance the accuracy and reliability of candidates’ records, ultimately reducing the substantial man-hours and resources spent annually by the Board on unnecessary data corrections.

This requirement, previously emphasized in an advisory to prospective candidates before the commencement of the 2024 UTME registration, is reiterated with a call for strict compliance by CBT centres. Failure to adhere to this directive will result in denied registration.

Taking a stern stance on compliance, JAMB has already suspended Total Child Computer and CBT Centre (TCCC) from the ongoing registration process. The suspension follows their violation of the directive by registering candidates without confirming the proof on their phones. JAMB deems this action a serious misconduct capable of causing mix-ups in candidates’ biodata and other sensitive information.

JAMB warns other CBT centres to strictly adhere to the rules of engagement, emphasizing potential sanctions for non-compliance. The move signifies the Board’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the UTME process, safeguarding against identity theft, and ensuring the accuracy of candidates’ records.