Pakistan has launched a cybercrime investigation into the suspected premature circulation of Cambridge examination papers after a British diplomat indicated the issue appeared to involve theft rather than a routine leak, according to an official statement issued Thursday.
The move comes after weeks of disruption in Cambridge O and AS Level mathematics exams in Pakistan, where multiple papers were reportedly shared on social media before scheduled exam times. The incident caused widespread concern among students and parents and led to the rescheduling of certain papers by exam authorities.
A high-level meeting chaired by Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha brought together representatives from the Education Ministry, Foreign Office, British Council, Cambridge Assessment International Education, and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency.
According to the Interior Ministry, the British Deputy High Commissioner informed participants that the case appeared more consistent with theft of exam material rather than an internal procedural leak. Cambridge officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining examination integrity and stated that strict security systems are in place.
The Interior Secretary expressed serious concern over the repeated incidents and directed the NCCIA to carry out a comprehensive investigation in coordination with Cambridge. Authorities also agreed on closer institutional coordination to resolve the issue promptly.
Cambridge confirmed on Wednesday that an AS Level Mathematics paper conducted in Pakistan had been circulated ahead of time, marking the second such incident in the current exam session. Earlier, an AS Level Mathematics paper held on April 29 was acknowledged as compromised, prompting a retake scheduled for June 9. Another mathematics exam planned for May 15 was also postponed as a precaution.
The examination body described the situation as “unprecedented” and said it was pursuing legal action against those responsible, adding that criminal actors were attempting to undermine the credibility of the assessment system.
Each year, thousands of Pakistani students take Cambridge O and A Level exams, which are widely recognized for university admissions in Pakistan and internationally.
