Secure online exams with EU-native proctoring that keeps data where it belongs
SMOWL delivers everything you need for high-stakes online assessments, AI-powered monitoring, identity verification, browser lockdown, and tamper-evident audit logs, without sending a single byte of learner data outside the European Union. We integrate it directly into your Open edX exam workflow.
Full proctoring capability, zero transatlantic data risk
Most proctoring providers are headquartered in the United States, which means learner biometric data, webcam footage, and identity documents cross the Atlantic every time someone takes an exam. SMOWL is built and hosted in Europe. It delivers the same capabilities as US-based alternatives like ProctorU and Honorlock, but your data stays under EU jurisdiction and GDPR protection from start to finish.
Proctoring Features
Configurable exam security from light-touch to full lockdown
Photo ID Verification
Learners verify their identity with a government-issued ID before the exam begins. SMOWL checks that the face on the ID matches the person at the keyboard.
Continuous AI Monitoring
Throughout the exam, AI monitors the webcam feed for suspicious behaviour: looking away, additional people in the frame, switching applications, or leaving the seat.
Browser Lockdown
Restrict the exam to a secure browser that prevents learners from opening other tabs, applications, or windows during the assessment.
Tamper-Evident Logs
Every event during the exam, from mouse movements to flagged incidents, is logged with timestamps. These logs form an auditable trail for appeals or accreditation reviews.
Examiner Dashboard
A centralised dashboard where exam administrators review flagged incidents, watch recorded sessions, and make final decisions on integrity violations.
Appeals Workflow
Built-in workflow for learners to contest proctoring flags. Transparent, fair, and documented, the way academic processes should work.
Ready to build your learning ecosystem?
Talk to an architect about how this fits your institution. No slide decks. No pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SMOWL and Open edX
Yes. SMOWL integrates with the Open edX special exams framework. When a learner starts a timed or proctored exam, SMOWL activates automatically with the security level you have configured for that assessment.
All SMOWL data, including webcam images, identity documents, and exam logs, is stored on EU-based servers. No data leaves the European Union. SMOWL is fully GDPR-compliant by design.
Absolutely. You can configure each exam independently: light-touch (photo verification only), moderate (periodic snapshots), or full (continuous monitoring with browser lockdown). The right level depends on the stakes of the assessment.
For basic proctoring, learners only need a webcam and a modern browser. For browser lockdown mode, a lightweight browser extension is required. The installation process takes under a minute.