TestDome detects cheating whenever an employer enables proctoring for an assessment. Its own documentation describes AI-driven cheating detection that scans the session recording for unusual tools or activity, alongside webcam monitoring, screen captures, and browser controls. Detection is not universal, though: it depends entirely on the settings the employer chooses for that test.
What TestDome monitors
When proctoring is enabled, TestDome layers several checks on top of each other:
- Webcam monitoring. The camera captures snapshots of the candidate to confirm the right person is taking the test.
- Screen capture. Screenshots are taken if the candidate leaves the test window or suspicious activity is detected.
- Browser lockdown. The test environment restricts navigation away from the assessment.
- AI-video analysis. TestDome's AI proctoring reviews the session recording and automatically highlights possible cheating attempts for the hiring team.
- Copy-paste protection. Question text is protected against pasting in outside answers.
- Email verification. Identity checks reduce impersonation.
These are compiled into a proctoring timeline the employer can review, with AI flagging the moments worth a closer look.
When detection is active
Detection depends on the employer's configuration. A standard TestDome test may run without any proctoring at all, while a proctored test turns on webcam, screen, and AI monitoring. TestDome includes all proctoring features in every plan, so the employer's choice, not the platform tier, determines what applies.
The invitation and pre-test instructions are the reliable way to know what to expect. If nothing mentions webcam, proctoring, or monitoring, the test is most likely running unmonitored.
Can TestDome detect screen sharing?
Yes — screen sharing is part of the same proctoring layer. If the test requests screen access, TestDome can see when the shared window changes, when the candidate navigates away, and when a second window appears. Combined with the AI-video analysis, this is one of the signals the platform uses to flag suspicious activity for review.
If your invitation does not mention screen sharing, the test is probably not requesting it — but check the pre-test instructions before assuming.
How to avoid accidental flags
Most flags come from ordinary behavior that looks suspicious in a recording:
- Stay in the test window for the full duration
- Close all other applications before starting, including notes apps and messaging tools
- Do not use a second monitor or a phone during the test
- Test your webcam and environment before the timed portion begins
- Take the test without helper tools open — background apps are exactly what AI detection is designed to notice
A single incidental tab switch is reviewed in context, not treated as proof of cheating. The best policy is to take the test cleanly.
Why employers use it
For hiring teams, the value of proctoring is trust in the result. TestDome's work-sample questions are also inherently harder to game than multiple-choice trivia, which is why the platform combines question design with monitoring rather than relying on either alone. Screening that leans on real skill demonstration needs less heavy monitoring to stay fair — see how candidate screening fits together.
If you are weighing whether the platform's free certificates carry weight with employers, is a TestDome certificate worth it covers what the credential actually signals.
Bottom line
TestDome detects cheating through webcam snapshots, screen capture, browser lockdown, and AI-video analysis — but only when the employer enables proctoring. Check your invitation, close external tools, and take the test cleanly to avoid accidental flags.