Exam cheats go wireless with micro spy gadgets

Teenagers may be using James Bond-style hidden micro spy earpieces to cheat in exams, according to the British government's testing watchdog. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority is investigating concerns that students could be using the devices linked to mobile phones or MP3 players.

A Canadian company is openly promoting the invisible, wireless "micro spy earphone" to exam candidates around the world, The Times Educational Supplement reported.

The company uses the advertising slogan: "Helping students succeed. Worldwide!"
The firm states on its website that it has shipped its spy equipment to the UK.

The company website says: "Our spy wireless earphones are great for students.

"No more breaking your head over a difficult tests or exam.
"No more memorising long and boring speeches. No more thinking about getting caught by using old notes-paper techniques."

Examear lists the features of its "Silver" model micro earpiece, the cheapest available.

"The model was especially designed for high school, and greatly fits the needs of students who are doing a test, exam or any class assignment," the website says.



"The model has 240 minutes battery life; this should be enough to complete any complicated and tedious test/exam.

"The wireless earphone is extremely small, and is not visible in the ear, what makes it a perfect helper to complete the desired test/presentation/etc.

"With this model, your only concern would be changing the battery after each long use."

The Gold model boasts a highly sensitive microphone which would pick up a student's voice even if they "whisper".

"Gold model has a great reputation on succeeding on long exams, as well as on business meetings," the website says.

It says its "tiny and invisible" wireless earphones are also suitable for people such as TV reporters, bar staff and TV game show contestants.
But it highlights the claimed advantages to students.