As thousands of Kenyan students begin their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, many have noticed that Telegram, one of the most popular messaging platforms in the country, has suddenly become difficult to access.
The restriction has sparked curiosity and concern, but global internet observatory Netblocks has now confirmed that Telegram access has been deliberately limited in Kenya.
According to the group, this move is consistent with similar restrictions seen in previous years during national exams, aimed at curbing online exam malpractice.
Netblocks explained that its data showed disruptions specifically targeting Telegram on the very day KCSE exams started. The organization noted that such actions usually happen when governments try to prevent cheating through digital channels.
Over the past few years, Telegram has been linked to several cases of examination fraud, with reports showing that some individuals have used the app to circulate what they claim are leaked exam papers.Investigations from various media outlets have revealed the extent of the problem.
In a 2024 exposé by NTV, undercover reporters discovered groups on Telegram selling supposed KCSE papers at different prices. Students and parents desperate for an advantage were asked to pay Ksh3,500 for a single paper, while those who wanted full access to all subjects until the end of the exam period had to part with over Ksh18,000. Many ended up losing their money to scammers who either sent them fake papers or disappeared after payment.
The restriction on Telegram comes just days after the government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguard the credibility of national examinations. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced that a multi-agency team had been set up to monitor online activity throughout the exam period.
He said the team would work around the clock to track suspicious online behavior, respond to threats in real time, and ensure that no digital networks were used to undermine the integrity of the tests.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has also been on high alert. Its latest monitoring report identified 51 Telegram channels suspected of sharing or selling examination materials, though only 18 of them had been successfully flagged.
WhatsApp was also cited as a platform where similar malpractice takes place. These findings have strengthened calls for tighter surveillance and accountability in exam administration.In preparation for this year’s national exams, KNEC rolled out new measures to reduce the risk of leaks.
One of the major steps introduced is the use of personalized exam papers for each candidate, ensuring that every paper can be traced back to a specific student and center.
Another security measure involves the continued practice of double collection, where morning and afternoon papers are released at different times to minimize chances of early exposure.
This year, 996,078 candidates are sitting for the KCSE exams, which will run for three weeks and conclude on November 21. The government’s heightened vigilance and the restriction on Telegram are part of broader efforts to ensure that the exams proceed smoothly and that merit, not manipulation, determines students’ success.
