The test delivery systems of CAT-2009 have been affected by the Conficker and W32/Nimda viruses, Prometric, which is conducting the test, has said. The entrance exam to the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), being administered in stages over several days, had to be put on hold for more than 7,000 candidates by day three.
Confirming the names of the viruses, Charles Karnan, chief operating officer, Prometric, said the problem has been a learning experience. “The lesson we have learnt is that we should not have used public infrastructure for the computerised test.”
Ramesh Nava, vice president and general manager, Prometric (Asia Pacific, Japan and Africa), said: “Unfortunately, the viruses and malware that attacked the test delivery system were not detected by the antivirus software at the testing centres.”
On the third day of the test, 33 computer labs across various centres in different cities remained to be restored.
Samir Barua, director, IIM-Ahmedabad, said: “The test failed in the first few days this year. However, since this is the first time the test is computerised, it is not very surprising.
“We have contacted the candidates whose tests have to be called off through SMS and email. We will make sure that all candidates get another opportunity to test. While we will try to reschedule according to their convenience, the flexibility will be limited.”
CAT-2009 is being conducted in 361 labs across 104 centres. The arrangement accommodates 17,000 students a day. Around 2.4 lakh candidates have registered for CAT 2009.
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