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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued a strong warning to all 2025 UTME candidates about a new wave of fraudulent messages targeting students who previously subscribed to “runz” or expo platforms.
According to the Board, criminals are now sending fake text messages to candidates, falsely claiming that JAMB has discovered they registered for external assistance or exam malpractice. These messages are designed to create fear and trick candidates into contacting certain phone numbers, where they are further extorted under the guise of “covering up the issue.”
The Fake Message Pattern
The fraudulent SMS messages often look like official JAMB alerts. In some cases, the sender ID mimics JAMB’s shortcode (e.g., 55019), or includes a fake UTME code like “8863,” making it appear authentic.
The content typically reads something like:
“JAMB has detected that you paid for runz/expo. Your exam record is under review. Contact Mr. XYZ on 080xxxxxx immediately to resolve this before it affects your result.”
This message is false, and the people behind it are the same individuals who run most of the illegal expo groups. They’re now targeting candidates a second time — using fear and panic to extract even more money.
JAMB’s Official Response
In a statement released by JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the Board made it clear:
“These messages are not from JAMB. They are the work of fraudsters. We have alerted security agencies, and investigations are ongoing to track down those responsible.”
He urged candidates to ignore any suspicious messages, no matter how real they may seem, especially those urging them to call unofficial numbers or make payment for “help.”
Why This Scam Works
According to education analysts, many candidates who subscribed to expo platforms are now living in fear, making them easy targets. The fraudsters understand this and are using their past mistake against them, creating fake threats to draw them in again.
This tactic is not new, but it has become more sophisticated. By mimicking JAMB’s format and playing on candidates’ guilt, these criminals are able to trick many into paying to “cover up” a problem that doesn’t exist.
What Candidates Should Do
Do not panic if you receive such a message.
Do not contact any phone number sent via SMS that is not from an official JAMB source.
Do not pay anyone who claims they can “clear” your name or “help” you avoid consequences.
Report suspicious messages to the nearest JAMB office or through official JAMB support channels.
Stick to official updates from www.jamb.gov.ng or 55019/66019 only.
Final Warning
JAMB has repeatedly advised candidates to avoid all forms of examination malpractice, and this news scam shows yet another danger associated with trying to cheat the system.
“Runs won’t just ruin your chances academically—it also opens the door to more fraud,” a JAMB official said.
Candidates are advised to prepare honestly and stay alert as the main UTME begins on April 25, 2025.
