Can Websites Detect a Split Screen Setup?

Yes, websites can detect if a user is using a split screen setup, but the methods employed for such detection can vary in effectiveness and accuracy. Various techniques are used, which we will explore in detail.

Techniques for Detecting Split Screen

Here are some of the common methods websites use to detect whether a user is in a split-screen mode:

Screen Size and Resolution

Websites can access the screen dimensions through the screen object in JavaScript. If a user is in split-screen mode, the reported dimensions might reflect a smaller effective viewport size than the full screen. This method can provide some clues about the user's display configuration but is not foolproof.

CSS Media Queries

Another method involves using CSS media queries to determine the size of the viewport. If the viewport is significantly narrower than the typical full-screen dimensions, it may suggest that the user is in split-screen mode. This approach is widely used and can be effective under certain conditions.

Performance and Behavior Monitoring

Some advanced techniques involve monitoring user behavior or performance metrics. For example, if a website notices slower interactions or unusual patterns, it may infer that the user is multitasking, possibly in split-screen mode. This method requires more sophisticated analysis but can be highly effective.

Browser-Specific Features

Some browsers might expose certain features or APIs that can hint at the user's display configuration. However, this is less common and may not be reliable across different browsers. For example, some browsers might provide information about the display density or resolution, which can be helpful in detecting split screens.

It is important to note that while these methods can provide hints, they are not always accurate. Users can have varying setups and configurations that might not always be accurately detectable.

Apps and Online Exam Systems

The detection of split screens is particularly relevant in the context of online exams. Many online exam systems, such as Online Exam Maker, can detect and prevent cheating by monitoring the user's behavior.

Online Exam Maker and similar systems can detect whether you have enabled chat software or remote devices, which might be used for cheating. These systems require these applications to be closed before allowing you to enter the exam environment.

While these systems can detect that you have switched away from the exam window, they often do not specifically identify a split screen setup. Instead, they monitor whether you have interacted with other tabs or windows. For example:

Clicking away from the exam window or switching to another tab can trigger a detection event. If a student is inactive for 30 seconds with no discrepancy, the system might log an away period. Once the student navigates back to the exam window or becomes active again, they are deemed active, and no recording is done during the inactive period.

This means that any time spent switching between pages or windows is viewed similarly to a period of inactivity, which might not accurately reflect the use of a split screen.

In conclusion, while websites can detect a split screen setup using various methods, the accuracy and reliability of these methods can vary. It is crucial to understand that these systems are designed to prevent cheating and ensure the integrity of online exams.