AI-powered cheating exposed at HCU exam in Gachibowli; two held with micro scanners in shirts

Hyderabad: Gachibowli Police have arrested two youths from Haryana for allegedly using Artificial Intelligence and high-tech gadgets to cheat during a recruitment examination for non-teaching staff conducted by Hyderabad Central University (HCU) for non-teaching posts.

High-tech cheating racket uncovered

The accused, identified as Anil and Satish, allegedly deployed sophisticated electronic devices to gain an unfair advantage during the examination held at the HCU campus.

Micro scanners hidden in shirt buttons

According to police, the duo had concealed micro scanners inside their shirt buttons to discreetly scan the question paper. The scanned content was then processed using AI tools to generate answers.

Answers relayed via Bluetooth devices

Investigators said the accused repeatedly visited the restroom, where they accessed AI-generated responses. The answers were allegedly transmitted to them through Bluetooth devices concealed in their ears, allowing them to continue writing the exam undetected.

Suspicion raised by unusual ‘beep’ sound

The operation unravelled when invigilators noticed a suspicious ‘beep’ sound emanating from one of the candidates’ Bluetooth devices during the examination. This prompted closer scrutiny and immediate intervention.

Complaint by varsity officials

Following a formal complaint by HCU authorities, the accused were detained and later arrested by Gachibowli Police.

Devices seized, probe underway

Police seized micro scanners and Bluetooth equipment from the accused. A detailed investigation is underway to determine whether others were involved and if similar methods were used in previous examinations, officials said.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the misuse of AI and emerging technologies in competitive examinations, prompting calls for tighter surveillance and enhanced screening measures, the police added.