LIVERPOOL – An Amazon Flex delivery driver who built a secret multi-million dollar empire by ghostwriting assignments and taking online exams for university students has been sentenced to three years in prison.
The Multi-Million Dollar Side Hustle
Shahid Adnan, 43, managed to amass over $2 million by completing coursework and fraudulently sitting exams for 124 students at various global universities. Operating under his company, Study Sharp Ltd, Adnan charged fees like $330 per exam.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) revealed that Adnan used his massive illicit earnings to fund a lavish lifestyle that stood in stark contrast to his declared income. When police raided his home, they discovered:
- An Audi and a BMW (models undisclosed).
- High-end, expensive furniture and luxury appliances.
- Four hidden accounts containing nearly $3.2 million combined across Barclays, Lloyds, and PayPal.
How The Tech Fraud Was Uncovered
Adnan’s downfall began at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). A student submitted a USB pen drive to the computer forensics department, claiming the coursework on it was theirs.
However, a senior manager’s digital audit revealed the drive belonged to Adnan’s company. Deeper inspection uncovered a hidden Excel spreadsheet containing:
- Personal network login credentials of multiple LJMU students.
- Specific study modules and strict assignment due dates.
This data allowed Adnan to log directly into university portals, impersonate students, and illegally take their online exams.
The Arrest and Sentencing
Following the university’s internal discovery, the Merseyside Police’s Cyber Dependent Crime Unit launched a full investigation and raided Adnan’s home.
In court, Adnan initially claimed he “was not aware” he needed official university permission to log into students’ accounts. However, he ultimately pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation, unauthorized computer access, and money laundering at Liverpool Crown Court.
On June 17, 2026, Adnan was officially sentenced to three years in prison. Authorities have already initiated asset forfeiture proceedings to recover and confiscate his millions in criminal profits. It remains unconfirmed what disciplinary actions the participating students will face from their respective universities.
