Proctorio is not only inefficient, it is also unsafe and a complete violation of a student's privacy. Forcing students to take exams through what has effectively been described by many as spyware, is unfair to both students & their data. Proctorio can 

• Read data from websites you visit
• Access your downloads
• View and capture the content of your screen
• Access your apps and privacy related settings 

According to Proctorio's own terms of service agreement

"You agree to allow Proctorio to monitor you by webcam, microphone, browser, desktop, or any other means necessary to uphold integrity. "

The vague wording of "any other means" is unsettling and has lead to legitimate privacy concerns among many students. Additionally, 14 Section A states

" (ii) any harm to Your computer system, loss of data, or other harm that results from Your access to or use of the Services or Content" 

We as students understand the need to uphold academic integrity and the legitimacy of the university, however, there has to be a better way. Whether that be through the use of Zoom based proctoring, project-based learning, or more rigorous take-home exams. Many professors are already effectively using these alternatives and we as students are asking that those who insist on using Proctorio should be required to switch over. The protection of our data and privacy should always come first.

Both the pandemic and current political climate are already stressful enough for many students. Worrying about potential loss or theft of data is something that no students wants to have added to their plate.