High-tech cheating in exams increases threat

Cheating in exams using high-tech devices is becoming an alarming trend, according to Ofqual’s Chief Regulator Sir Ian Bauckham. In a recent podcast episode titled Can I Just Qualify That?, Bauckham emphasised the urgent need for action against this growing threat, especially as over 1.3 million students prepare to sit their exams. He noted that the challenge posed by innovative gadgets like invisible earpieces and smart glasses should not be underestimated. “There are of course other devices, there are smart watches and smart all sorts of things. There might be smart spectacles next… that will play text across the inside of the lens that only the student can see.” Bauckham highlighted the swift pace of technological advancement, stating, “We have to move really fast, because technology is moving fast.”

Concerns regarding students successfully avoiding detection and sneaking their devices into exam halls were addressed by Bauckham, who insisted, “We shouldn’t underestimate the challenge involved here.” He praised recent government measures that mandate schools to ban mobile phones from their premises, suggesting that this policy simplifies the task for invigilators. “While students are allowed to have mobile phones in school but not in the exam, you have a point of tension, a point of conflict.” Data from Ofqual revealed a staggering 2,225 malpractice cases involving mobile phones and smart devices during the summer 2025 exam series, which accounted for 44.3% of all student malpractice. This category has emerged as the most common form of cheating since 2018.

Bauckham warned that students who carry phones or devices into exam halls face the risk of losing marks or being disqualified, which could hinder their chances of obtaining qualifications. The podcast also discussed the implications of AI on education and assessment, highlighting concerns about detecting AI-generated coursework. The new podcast series is set to provide deeper insights into qualifications and assessment as Sir Ian and his colleagues at Ofqual explore the evolving landscape of education.