Can i hire someone to take gre for me?Are proxy test takers legit?This article explores the reasons why gre cheating at home is possible and the methods of gre test taker for hire used.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for many graduate schools in the United States and copyright. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) introduced the GRE at Home option, allowing students to take the test from the comfort of their own homes. While this has provided convenience and flexibility, it has also opened up new avenues for potential cheating.
1. Bypassing Proctoring Technology
One of the primary reasons gre test at home cheating is possible is the ability to bypass the proctoring technology used by ETS. ProctorU, the service ETS uses to monitor online exams, employs various methods to ensure test integrity, such as live monitoring, screen mirroring, and AI-based behavior analysis. However, these methods are not foolproof.
a. Software and Hardware Manipulation
Test-takers can use specialized software or hardware to manipulate the proctoring technology. For instance, certain software can bypass the monitoring system, allowing test-takers to access unauthorized resources during the exam1. Additionally, hardware devices can be used to share the test screen with a third party who can provide answers1.
b. Screen Mirroring and Remote Assistance
Screen mirroring techniques enable test-takers to share their screens with others who can assist them during the exam. This method involves using multiple devices to avoid detection by the proctoring software5. Remote assistance tools can also be employed to control the test-taker's computer discreetly19.
2. Exploiting Weaknesses in AI-Based Proctoring
AI-based proctoring systems, while advanced, have their limitations. These systems analyze behavior and flag suspicious activities, but they can be tricked with careful planning.
a. Behavioral Mimicry
Test-takers can mimic normal behavior to avoid detection by AI systems. For example, they can practice maintaining a neutral facial expression and avoiding any sudden movements that might trigger the AI's suspicion5.
b. Pre-recorded Video Feeds
Some individuals use pre-recorded video feeds to trick the AI into thinking they are present and taking the test, while someone else actually completes the exam in their place5.
3. Biometric and Identity Fraud
Biometric verification methods, such as facial recognition and keystroke analysis, are used to ensure the test-taker's identity. However, these methods can be circumvented.
a. Identity Spoofing
Advanced techniques, such as using high-quality photographs or videos, can spoof facial recognition systems. Similarly, keystroke dynamics can be mimicked by someone familiar with the test-taker's typing patterns5.
b. Palm Vein Scanners
While palm vein scanners offer a more secure form of biometric verification, they are not widely used due to their cost and complexity. This leaves other, less secure methods as the primary means of identity verification, which can be exploited5.
4. Utilizing External Assistance
Another method of cheating involves receiving direct assistance from a third party during the exam.
a. Remote Proctoring Services
Some services offer remote proctoring assistance, where a third party takes the test on behalf of the test-taker. These services often use sophisticated methods to ensure they are not detected by the proctoring software719.
b. Collaborative Cheating
Test-takers can collaborate with others to share answers during the exam. This can be done through discreet communication methods, such as text messages or online chat rooms, which are difficult for proctoring software to detect19.
5. Exploiting Time Differences
Taking advantage of time zone differences is another method used by cheaters. By accessing the test questions in a different time zone before their scheduled exam, test-takers can prepare answers in advance19.
Conclusion
While ETS has implemented several measures to prevent cheating on the GRE at home, the feasibility of cheating remains due to the inherent vulnerabilities in proctoring technology, AI systems, and biometric verification methods. The methods discussed in this article highlight the ongoing cat-and-mouse game between test-takers and exam administrators. It is crucial for ETS to continue enhancing their security measures to maintain the integrity of the GRE and ensure fair testing conditions for all candidates.