CSA Exposes Fraudulent Schemes Targeting BECE Candidates

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has shed light on a recent scheme developed by fraudsters targeting recent Junior High School (JHS) graduates, their friends and family.

Under the scheme, it recounted how fraudsters pose as official educational bodies or claim “inside access” to the results and placement systems, promising to upgrade their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results and changing their school placements at a fee.

“Threat actors impersonate officials from examination bodies specifically, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), using fake profiles on social media, and convincing stories to appear legitimate,” it enlightened in a statement.

These scrupulous individuals ply their schemes through various WhatsApp groups, adding that once payment is received the fraudsters cease communication with the victims.

The CSA noted that BECE results released by the relevant examination body are final and cannot be altered by any third party, nor can school placements be changed if not under the self-placement.

It warned that engaging with these individuals can lead to financial loss and potentially expose personal information to identity theft and further fraud.

“Disregard messages or calls that promise to modify exam results, upgrade scores, or alter school placements. Always verify results through the official WAEC portal or your educational institution. Do not trust third-party claims or unofficial communication channels,” it recommended.

This comes after the results and SHS and TVET placement for the 2024 BECE candidates have been released.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini