Introduction,
Online exams have become the new norm, and with them comes the need for advanced proctoring software. Proctorio is one of the most widely used tools, but many students and institutions wonder does Proctorio record your screen? The short answer is yes, but the details matter.
In this blog, we’ll break down what Proctorio records, how it works, and what it means for your privacy.
What is Proctorio?
Proctorio is an AI-driven online proctoring software designed to monitor test-takers during remote exams. It helps institutions:
- Prevent cheating
- Maintain academic integrity
- Provide flexible exam environments
Proctorio works by tracking various activities including webcam footage, audio, and screen interactions, depending on how the exam administrator configures it.
Does Proctorio Record Your Screen?
Yes, Proctorio can record your screen if the exam administrator enables this setting.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Proctorio requests permission to access your screen activity.
- It may capture your tabs, applications, or mouse movements.
- This recording is stored securely and reviewed by instructors if flagged.
It’s important to note that Proctorio does not always record by default – it depends on your institution’s chosen settings.
What Else Does Proctorio Record?
Apart from screen activity, Proctorio may also record:
- Webcam video (to monitor eye movement and presence)
- Microphone audio (to detect background voices or noises)
- Browser activity (to check for multiple tabs or copy-paste attempts)
Each of these features is customizable by the exam administrator.
Privacy Concerns with Proctorio
Many students worry about surveillance and data safety. Proctorio addresses these concerns by:
- Encrypting recordings so only authorized educators can view them
- Not storing personal data beyond exam monitoring needs
- Operating only during the exam – it does not run in the background when you’re not testing
Still, students should always review exam instructions to understand what data will be collected.
Why Does Proctorio Record the Screen?
The primary goal is exam integrity. By recording screen activity, Proctorio can:
- Detect switching between apps or browsers
- Prevent access to unauthorized resources
- Provide instructors with evidence of potential cheating
Without screen recording, online exams would be far more vulnerable to dishonest practices.
Pros and Cons of Proctorio Screen Recording
Pros:
- Prevents cheating
- Ensures fair evaluation
- Builds trust in online education
Cons:
- Raises privacy concerns
- May cause stress for test-takers
- Requires stable internet and device permissions
FAQs
1. Does Proctorio record everything I do on my computer?
No. It only records activities during the exam session and within the permissions granted by your institution.
2. Can Proctorio see my files or personal data?
No. Proctorio cannot access your personal files, documents, or data outside the exam environment.
3. Does Proctorio always record my screen?
Not always. It depends on the exam settings chosen by your instructor or institution.
4. Who can view my Proctorio recordings?
Only authorized faculty or exam administrators have access to review recordings.
5. Is Proctorio safe to use?
Yes. Proctorio uses encryption and privacy safeguards, but students should still confirm settings with their institution.
Conclusion,
So, does Proctorio record your screen? Yes, but only when your exam administrator enables the feature. Screen recording helps maintain fairness, but it also comes with privacy questions. The best approach is to stay informed about your institution’s policies and prepare for exams knowing exactly what Proctorio monitors.
In the end, Proctorio is a tool designed to balance integrity and convenience in remote learning. With the right awareness, students can approach exams confidently and securely.
