Post-UTME Scams Exposed: 5 Tactics Fake Admissions Officers Use to Target Desperate Students
Discover how fraudsters exploit Post-UTME hopefuls with fake admissions promises. Learn to spot scams, protect yourself, and report fraudsters effectively.
Okoro David Emeka 
The pressure to secure a university admission in Nigeria turns the Post-UTME season into a high-stakes battleground. Desperation often blinds students and parents to red flags, making them easy prey for ruthless scammers. In 2023 alone, the EFCC reported over 1,200 cases of admission-related fraud. This post reveals the top 5 tactics fake admissions officers use to trick students, how to avoid them, and steps to take if you’ve been targeted.
1. “Pay to Secure Your Slot” Fraud
How It Works: Scammers impersonate university officials, claiming you must pay a “processing fee” or “reservation fee” to guarantee admission. They often cite fake deadlines to pressure victims.
- Red Flags:
- Requests for payment via personal bank accounts (not official university portals).
- No official receipt or documentation.
- How to Avoid:
- Never pay fees outside JAMB or university-sanctioned platforms.
- Verify payment requests directly with the school’s admissions office.
2. Fake Social Media Accounts & Phishing Links
How It Works: Fraudsters create fake university social media pages or WhatsApp groups, sharing phishing links disguised as “Post-UTME portals” to steal login details or install malware.
- Recent Example: A cloned UNILAG Facebook page tricked 80+ students into sharing JAMB details in 2024.
- Red Flags:
- Unofficial email domains (e.g., @unilag-online.com instead of @unilag.edu.ng).
- Links asking for sensitive info like JAMB registration numbers.
3. “Miracle Upgrade” Scams
How It Works: Scammers promise to “upgrade” low Post-UTME scores or JAMB results for a fee, often using forged screenshots of “successful” cases.
- Red Flags:
- Claims of “insider access” to JAMB or university systems.
- Requests for payment in cryptocurrency or gift cards.
- Fact: JAMB results and Post-UTME scores cannot be altered after release.
4. Fake Admission Letters & Portals
How It Works: Fraudsters send counterfeit admission letters via email or SMS, directing students to cloned university portals to “accept” their offer—and pay fees.
- How to Verify:
- Cross-check admission status only on JAMB CAPS or the university’s official website.
- Look for typos, poor graphics, or mismatched logos in documents.
5. Impersonation via Phone Calls
How It Works: Scammers call students, posing as “JAMB officials” or “university registrars,” threatening to revoke admission unless urgent payments are made.
- Red Flags:
- Calls from personal numbers (official bodies use registered lines).
- Threats of legal action or admission cancellation.
- Tip: Hang up and contact the university via verified channels.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
1. Report Immediately: Contact the EFCC (via info@efcc.gov.ng) or ICPC with evidence (screenshots, bank details).
2. Alert Your Bank: Dispute transactions if payments were made.
3. Warn Others: Share your experience on social media to protect peers.
How to Avoid Post-UTME Scams
- Verify Contacts: Always confirm offers via the university’s official website or hotline.
- Ignore Unsolicited Messages: JAMB and universities never send admission offers via SMS or WhatsApp.
- Educate Yourself: Follow JAMB’s official social media for scam alerts.
FAQs
Q: Can scammers access my JAMB profile?
A: No—unless you share your password. Never disclose login details.
Q: What if I paid a scammer?
A: Report to authorities immediately. Recovery is possible if reported early.
Q: Are scholarships advertised on social media legit?
A: Rarely. Verify through the university’s financial aid office.
Final Word
Post-UTME scams thrive on fear and misinformation. Stay vigilant, trust only official channels, and remember: no legitimate institution demands payment for admission. Share this guide to protect others—and don’t let desperation cloud your judgment.
Need Help?
- JAMB Support: 0700-2255-822
- EFCC Scam Reporting: 0800-335-5533
Stay Safe! follow Myschoolnews for more tips on navigating Nigeria’s education system without falling victim to scams.
