⚠️ PTE/IELTS Exam Scam Alert

With the growing pressure around language certification exams like PTE and IELTS, scammers have found a lucrative loophole—offering fake exam services through social media. This blog dives into one such scam and how it was executed, helping others recognize and avoid similar traps.

🎯 What is the scam?

Scammers pretend to be legitimate agents who can help you pass PTE or IELTS exams without attending them. They lure victims through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Telegram, and even Gmail. The victims are promised certificates or results for a fee, often between £1500–£2000.

🧵 How does the scam operate?

• They post ads or testimonials on social media platforms.
• Once contacted, they appear professional and confident.
• They quote prices and claim you need to pay 60% upfront.
• After payment, they send documents like biometric forms to keep you engaged.
• Then comes the surprise: they ask for more money due to a "technical issue."
• If you refuse to pay, they emotionally manipulate you.
• Eventually, they vanish, delete accounts, and never respond again.

📚 Real Story (Case Study)

This scam was recently reported by an individual who encountered a fraudulent agent claiming to help them pass PTE for £1500. The person behind the scam identified himself as Allen James and used the email address: royalcollegeofficialuk@gmail.com and a UK number: +44 7930 210753.

According to the report, the scammer initially asked for a 60% payment up front. After receiving the money, the scammer sent a biometric form to maintain credibility. A few hours later, they demanded an additional £1000, citing "issues uploading the biometric form." When the victim questioned the demand, the scammer used emotional manipulation—swearing on their child—to convince them to comply. Eventually, communication stopped and the scammer disappeared.

📎 Attached Social Links

• Facebook Post (May be deleted)
• Instagram Profile (May be deleted)

🔍 Red Flags to Watch

• Claims of "guaranteed pass" without exam attendance.
• Unverified contacts using Gmail or personal accounts.
• Demands for payment in non-secure ways (bank transfer, cryptocurrency).
• Emotional manipulation and urgency.
• Instagram or Facebook pages with fake testimonials.

📣 What Should You Do?

• Never send money to unverified sources.
• Always use official exam registration portals.
• Report such scams to your local cybercrime unit.
• If you’ve been scammed, collect all evidence and report to: Australian Cyber Security Centre (for AU cases).

💬 Final Thoughts

This is not just a one-off incident. Scammers work in networks and frequently change their identities and accounts. Raising awareness and sharing real cases like this can prevent others from becoming victims.