The rise of online education has brought convenience and flexibility, but it has also opened doors to sophisticated cheating tactics. Hence with students finding innovative ways to bypass exam security, the integrity of online assessments is at risk. Proctortrack is at the forefront of combating this challenge, using cutting-edge technologies like the PEBble browser and dual-camera setups to maintain the integrity of online exams. This blog explores the high-tech methods students use to cheat and how online proctoring solutions are evolving to counter these tactics.
1: Screen Sharing and Remote Access Tools
One of the most common cheating methods involves screen sharing and remote access tools. Students can use software like Zoom, Skype, or TeamViewer to share their screens with accomplices who feed them answers in real time.
Proctortrack’s Solution: Proctortrack detects unauthorized applications running during the exam. The PEBble browser prevents the launch of screen-sharing tools, ensuring students cannot collaborate during assessments.
2: The Use of Virtual Machines
Virtual machines (VMs) allow students to create isolated environments on their devices, making it possible to run secondary operating systems without detection. This enables them to access unauthorized resources during the exam.
Proctortrack’s Solution: Proctortrack’s software monitors the system’s processes and flags the use of virtual machines. The PEBble browser’s secure environment prevents the launch of any virtual instances, ensuring a tamper-proof exam session.
3: Advanced Search Engine Tactics
Students often rely on search engines to find answers during exams. By using incognito modes or specialized search tools, they attempt to bypass monitoring systems.
Proctortrack’s Solution: The PEBble browser restricts access to search engines and other unauthorized websites. Proctortrack’s AI algorithms also analyze typing patterns and browsing behavior to detect suspicious activity.
4: The Rise of Chatbot Assistance
Chatbots and AI-driven assistance tools have become popular among students for quickly retrieving answers. Therefore, these bots can be integrated into messaging apps, making it easier to cheat undetected.
Proctortrack’s Solution: The PEBble browser blocks unauthorized messaging apps and chatbots. Proctortrack’s monitoring system also identifies unusual interactions with software, alerting proctors to potential cheating.
5: Smartwatches and Wearable Tech
Wearable technology, such as smartwatches, allows students to access information or communicate with others during exams discreetly. These devices can store notes or connect to the internet for quick searches.
Proctortrack’s Solution: Proctortrack’s dual-camera system captures a comprehensive view of the test-taker and their surroundings, ensuring that wearable devices are identified and flagged. The technology also enforces strict rules against the use of wearables.
6: Manipulating Browser Extensions
Browser extensions can be used to bypass security protocols. Therefore, these extensions can provide instant access to notes search engines or even change the browser’s behavior to avoid detection.
Proctortrack’s Solution: The PEBble browser disables all extensions, ensuring a clean and secure browsing experience. Proctortrack’s monitoring tools detect and prevent any attempt to manipulate browser functionalities.
7: Exploiting Blind Spots with Camera Tricks
Students often manipulate camera angles or use blind spots to hide notes or electronic devices. By positioning cameras in a way that leaves areas of their environment unmonitored, they create opportunities for cheating.
Proctortrack’s Solution: Proctortrack’s dual-camera technology eliminates blind spots by providing a comprehensive view of the exam environment. This setup ensures that all areas around the test-taker are monitored, preventing hidden cheating attempts.
Summing up
High-tech cheating tactics in online exams pose a significant threat to academic integrity. However, Proctortrack’s innovative proctoring solutions, including the PEBble browser and dual-camera system, offer robust defenses against these methods. Hence, by addressing vulnerabilities such as unauthorized applications, virtual machines, chatbots, and blind spots, Proctortrack ensures that online exams are secure, fair, and credible. As technology evolves, so must our methods of safeguarding the integrity of education, and Proctortrack is leading the way in this critical endeavor.
