Taking a test is stressful enough. Now imagine adding biometric verification, AI tracking your every move while scanning your bedroom, and a live proctor messaging you that your actions seem suspicious, all while you're trying to solve a math problem. Yikes. That's not just nerve-wracking; it's downright terrifying.
Welcome to the new age of online exams, where students are carefully monitored by sophisticated biometric and AI tools while they take their finals from home.
The Rise of Online Proctoring Services
Many colleges and universities have been offering online courses for decades now, and those that hadn't were essentially forced to do so during the COVID-19 pandemic, ushering in a new age where remote testing became the norm.
In this era of learning, schools have turned to online proctoring services, such as Verificient, to verify student's identity and carefully monitor student activity during tests.
Accused of cheating by a proctoring service? The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team is ready to protect your rights and advocate for your future. Call us at 888.535.3686 or complete our confidential consultation form today.
Verificient 101: How It Works
Verificient is a company that offers online proctoring services for both schools and employers who conduct employee assessments. Like most other proctoring services on the market, Verificient utilizes a mixture of AI tools and live human proctors to watch students while they test. Any behavior deemed suspicious is immediately flagged. After the test, the system generates a red flag report. This report is reviewed by a human proctor and then promptly sent to the instructor, who receives video footage along with timestamps and evidence of any suspicious behavior.
Biometric Tracking: What Makes Verificient Different?
Verificient emphasizes biometric data, setting it apart from most other proctoring programs. Before an exam, students must submit a facial scan, ID scan, and knuckle scan for authentication. This biometric data establishes a baseline for identity verification. Then, throughout the exam, AI continuously compares the test-taker's real-time data against this baseline to confirm their identity.
Flagged by Verificient? Here's What To Do Next
Depending on the Verificient service your school or employer uses, a human proctor may alert you to red flags during the test, asking questions or requesting clarification, or alternatively, you may not be notified at all. Your instructor will simply receive a report after your test, potentially accusing you of cheating without your input or knowledge.
Scenario #1: If you are asked questions during your exam by a human proctor, it's best to answer honestly and politely. You can also ask them if there is any behavior you need to modify or change to avoid red flags during the remainder of the test.
Scenario #2: If your instructor reaches out to you after the test with questions or for clarification, remain composed and respond in a straightforward manner. If they mention any red flags, ask for a clear explanation. You want to fully understand what you are being accused of without any confusion.
Common False Red Flags
Verificient's system is designed to detect suspicious behavior, but it doesn't always get it right. In fact, students are often flagged for entirely innocent actions. Here are some common behaviors that may trigger false red flags:
- Looking Away from the Screen: You might glance up while thinking through a tough question or look down to do a math problem in your head, normal behaviors that unfortunately may appear suspicious to AI.
- Background Noise or Movement: Any background noise or movement can trigger a flag for an unauthorized presence. Not great news for those students who share a space with noisy roommates or family. Even a dog barking in the background may trigger an alert.
- Reading Aloud or Whispering: Some students process information better by quietly reading questions to themselves, but verbalizing anything during a test can lead the system to suspect you're talking to someone or receiving outside help.
- Internet Connection Issues: A frozen screen or temporary disconnect can cause gaps in the video feed, which may be flagged as tampering or an attempt to hide something, even if it was just a shaky Wi-Fi signal.
- Poor Lighting or Webcam Angles: If your room isn't well-lit or your webcam doesn't capture your face clearly, Verificient may not be able to confirm your identity, triggering false red flags for “face not detected.”
- Slow Typing or Pauses Between Answers: Taking your time shouldn't be a crime, but AI may flag long pauses or irregular pacing as potential signs of cheating.
When Accusations Lead to Consequences
If an accusation of cheating escalates beyond the red flag stage and puts you at risk of failing the exam, receiving a failing grade for the course, or facing other serious consequences, follow this step-by-step guide to achieve the best possible outcome:
Get Support
Retain a skilled education lawyer as soon as possible. This is a crucial first step. Our Student Defense Team understands your institution's academic misconduct policies and can advocate on your behalf. And we can help you seamlessly navigate through all the other steps.
Ask Questions
- Request a clear explanation of the accusation, preferably in writing.
- Ask to see the official Verificient red flag report and any relevant video footage.
- Keep detailed notes as events unfold.
- If possible, obtain written statements from your proctor, instructor, or other school officials.
Gather Evidence
- Collect any relevant text messages, emails, or screenshots that may support your defense.
- Save the contact information of any witnesses.
Keep Your Situation Private
- While it may be tempting to vent your frustration, avoid discussing your case with friends, fellow students, or online.
- Remember that anything you say could later be used against you, and it's surprisingly easy to inadvertently incriminate yourself.
Review Your Institution's Policies
- Obtain a copy of your school's academic honor policy and review it carefully to understand the exact nature of the accusation.
- Check for any inconsistencies between the policy and the way your case is being handled.
Accused by Verificient? Get the Help You Need.
Cheating accusations can derail your future and result in life-shattering consequences such as academic probation, suspension or expulsion from school, or even difficulty finding employment. Take Verificient allegations seriously and get the help you need to defend your future.
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team has helped many students defeat academic misconduct charges, and we can help you. Call us now at 888.535.3686 or complete this contact form to share your case with us. We're here to fight for your future.
