Viet Nam dismantles massive fake English test certificate fraud ring
Authorities in northern Viet Nam have broken up a large-scale fraud ring accused of illegally organising English language tests. The operation allegedly involved fake certificates and generated billions in illicit profits. Three suspects are now in custody as the investigation continues. The fraud ring operated under the name 'Bright Online LLC Academy' and claimed to issue CEFR-aligned English certificates. Investigators say the group organised around 125 examination sessions with roughly 80,000 candidates. Fees for the fake tests ranged from VNĐ2 million to VNĐ18 million (about $80 to over $680), depending on the certificate level.
The Institute of Educational Management Sciences (IEMS) was allegedly involved in the scheme. Police estimate the ring earned around VNĐ200 billion (US$7.6 million) from the operation. Three individuals—Đỗ Văn Mạnh, Đặng Thị Huyền, and Jayaprakash Ethamukkalam—have been detained in connection with the case.
Police have now urged agencies to review any foreign language certificates issued through the group’s cooperation. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities examining the full extent of the fraud. The dismantled ring leaves agencies checking the validity of thousands of English certificates. Authorities continue to probe the case, with three suspects already in custody. The total illicit profits from the scheme are estimated at over US$7.6 million.
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