Exploring the Impact of E-Fraud on Examination Result Outcomes in Pre-Entrance Qualifications for First -Degree Programs in Selected Universities in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of e-fraud on examination result outcomes in pre-entrance qualifications for first-degree programs at selected universities in Nigeria. To address this, three hypotheses were proposed, examining whether there is a significant relationship between e-fraud practices specifically identity theft/impersonation, hacking and the sale of examination questions and examination result outcome. The study adopted a survey research design and utilized stratified random sampling to select a sample of 702 respondents. Data were collected using the ‘‘E-Fraud and Examination Result Outcomes in Pre-Entrance Qualifications Questionnaire’’ (EFEROPEQQ). Simple regression analysis was conducted to analyze the data, revealing a significant relationship between identity theft/impersonation, hacking, sale of examination questions and examination result outcomes. Based on these findings, several recommendations were proposed among which include: examination administrators should implement biometric verification and secure authentication measures, adopt advanced encryption and secure online platforms, conduct regular audits and enforce strict institutional policies to address examination malpractice.

Keywords: Hacking, E-fraud, Examination, Result, pre-entrance, Qualification; Impersonation, malpractices.