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The former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan suspended its mobile internet network on Friday as well as blocking text and multi-media messages for the whole population – so as to prevent any cheating in university entrance exams!
In statements, the country’s two main mobile operators alluded to “urgent maintenance work on the telecommunications network from 08H30 à 13H30” local time.
During this period, in which Uzbek university entrance exams were being sat, subscribers could neither access the Internet on their phones nor send text or multi-media messages.
Local media said major anti-cheating measures had been implemented, including partially blocking mobile networks and searching educational premises, to thwart users of ‘mini mobile phones’ hidden by students in their shoes.
Some telephone stores in the capital Tashkent displayed signs saying that no mini cellphones were available and urging exam candidates to use their heads instead.