Ofqual warns of smart-device cheating surge in UK GCSE and A‑level exams

England's exams regulator Ofqual, led by chief regulator Sir Ian Bauckham, has warned that a small minority of students are using increasingly sophisticated smart devices to cheat in GCSE and A‑level examinations. The devices cited include smart glasses that display text only to the wearer, concealed earpieces for covert communication and pens fitted with tiny video screens.

Ofqual data from last summer shows mobile phones and smart devices were involved in 2,225 cases of exam malpractice, representing 44% of all incidents. Of those, 545 students were disqualified from some or all qualifications and a further 1,240 lost marks, with the most severe cases potentially resulting in the loss of all A‑level grades.

With more than a million pupils sitting these exams this summer, schools are training invigilators to spot hidden equipment and exam boards are issuing guidance on detection. Some of the cheating aids are openly marketed online. Sir Ian stressed that the majority of students act honestly, but warned that the penalties for cheating can be severe and threaten future education and career opportunities.