Healthcare worker struck off for AI cheating in Guildford hospital interview
The tribunal cited dishonesty and lack of remorse
A healthcare professional has been removed from the register after allegedly using artificial intelligence to help her cheat during a job interview at Guildford’s Royal Surrey County Hospital.
Aiwanehi Sandra Aigbokhaevbo faced a tribunal held by the Health and Care Professions tribunal service (HCP) following claims that she cheated while interviewing online for an entry-level oncology dietician role.
According to the tribunal evidence, Aigbokhaevbo, who was in Nigeria at the time of the interview, appeared initially enthusiastic but soon showed signs of hesitance and confusion when posed with knowledge-based questions.
The Alleged Use of AI
The panel noted unusual behaviour during the interview, claiming that Aigbokhaevbo repeatedly asked questions to be repeated, then provided overly detailed answers that conveyed advanced knowledge unexpected for her level.
Interviewers observed that her eyes appeared to be moving side-to-side, suggesting she was reading from another screen. Her articulate responses following extended silences raised suspicions of AI assistance.
A subsequent case study also revealed unusually complex responses and extensive terminology rather than using recognised industry acronyms. After the interview, an AI comparison check showed strong similarities with her answers.
Tribunal's Decision
When confronted with the allegations, Aigbokhaevbo denied the claims, asserting she was looking at a router adjacent to her computer during the interview. However, the tribunal dismissed this account as implausible.
The hearing concluded she employed AI, categorising it as cheating and dishonesty. Her conduct fell significantly short of expected standards, qualifying as misconduct.
Aigbokhaevbo displayed no remorse nor offered an apology, instead choosing to challenge the integrity of the HCPC. The panel recommended her registration be struck off, citing the serious nature, persistency, and deliberateness of her actions.
The HCPC noted her actions severely compromised the integrity of the recruitment process. They emphasized the need to protect the public and the profession's reputation, insisting that striking off was necessary to uphold public confidence in the regulatory system.