exam.net or any other software that blocks your Mac from doing other stuff, are they something that can damage the M1s?

[jordysak]

I am a university student and for online exams teachers often use something called 'exam.net', either the app or via google chrome. Either way it works by locking the current screen, so as soon as I open exam.net, the screen is locked and I can't leave or do anything to close the app, or at least not without me quitting the online exam. I am wondering whether this sort of app can be harmful to the new M1 MacBooks, because in a way these apps take complete control over the machine by locking everything .. I might be over worrying for no reason, is exam.net safe to use?

MacBook Pro M1

 

[MultiFinder17]

No, you’ll be fine. I’m a teacher, and I’ve used similar software on my M1 Air to no ill effect.

 

[SegNerd]

From my background, I would be much more worried about how it affects accessibility software. There are many different software accommodations for many different types of disabilities, and products like this are notorious for impairing their functionality. Even if it supports one option (like VoiceOver), that doesn’t mean it meets everyone’s needs.

 

[casperes1996]

From my background, I would be much more worried about how it affects accessibility software. There are many different software accommodations for many different types of disabilities, and products like this are notorious for impairing their functionality. Even if it supports one option (like VoiceOver), that doesn’t mean it meets everyone’s needs.

As someone who uses Zoom and Speak Selection regularly, thanks for the consideration - Fortunately my professors have never required anything like this and to my knowledge the university approved solution works well, but it's a serious problem.


As for the OP's original question; Why would it affect the M1 more than any other computer