Students are requested to call the number provided in the message for clarification. In some cases, the scammer demands a fee or deposit to help “delete” footage of the alleged cheating.
Authorities across different provinces, such as Sichuan, Jilin, Zhejiang, Tianjin and Hainan have released notices on messaging platform WeChat warning students and their parents of the scams, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported.
In a notice posted on Monday night, the Criminal Investigation Bureau under the Ministry of Public Security said cheating violations will be reviewed manually, and individuals will be notified in writing. Official notifications will also not be made through phone calls, text messages or any similar methods.
“Any requests involving further money transfers are scams,” said the bureau.
Chinese media reports have also highlighted other gaokao-related scams.
One involves text messages suggesting that the gaokao results have been released in advance and opening a link to find out more. In this case, the provided link is likely a phishing website, designed to obtain the victim’s personal information.
Another con involves a scammer pretending to be a college teacher or an education ministry employee, falsely claiming they can help high-performing students apply in advance for grants and scholarships in return for a “handling fee”.
The reports by local media did not state how many such scam cases have recently emerged.
In its Monday notice, the Criminal Investigation Bureau stated that the checking of examination scores, school admissions, and other processes is done through official channels.
“Do not trust unverified text messages or calls,” said the bureau, adding that students and parents who encounter suspicious activity are advised to contact their schools, the authorities or call the national anti-fraud hotline for assistance.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/china-gaokao-college-entrance-exam-students-parents-scams-warning-5172276
