When you take a technical interview in a browser (for example, on Yandex Code or other platforms), the browser works as an isolated box. Everything that happens on the tab with the editor cannot "look out" and see what else is running on your computer. This is done specifically for security.
What the interview platform can track
The test site can only notice what happens inside its tab:
- You switched to another tab — but doesn't know which one
- You pasted code into the editor — can track what exactly you're pasting and how often
- Eye movement through the webcam — if you gave permission, can track your movements
- Your screen — only if you enabled screen sharing yourself, can track your screen actions
What the platform CANNOT see
Here's what the site definitely cannot do:
- Find out what programs you have open — the browser simply doesn't provide such information
- Read what's happening in other applications — this is prohibited by the security system
- Track all your clicks and keystrokes — only those inside their tab
- See hidden applications during screen sharing — some programs can hide from recording
How Sobes Overlay works
Sobes Overlay is not a browser extension, but a separate program on your computer. Therefore:
1. It's completely invisible to the browser
The browser doesn't even know such a program exists. It's like if you had a TV running in your room — the site in the browser won't know about it.
2. It's not visible during screen sharing
The application uses special settings to not appear in screen recordings. This is a standard feature used by many programs for privacy protection.
3. You stay in the browser
When you show/hide Sobes Overlay with a hotkey (Ctrl / ⌘+B), your cursor stays in the browser. To the site, you're still working in their tab.
4. You can look directly at the camera
The application window can be moved right over the task (Ctrl / ⌘ + arrows). This way you look at the code and simultaneously — directly at the webcam.
What if they ask you to install special software?
Theoretically, a company can ask you to install monitoring software. But in practice, this happens extremely rarely because:
- People don't want to install suspicious programs
- This may violate privacy and confidentiality laws
- Companies fear losing candidates' trust
Therefore, 99% of interviews happen simply in the browser.
Conclusion
Interview platforms work inside the browser and cannot see what happens beyond it. And Sobes Overlay is a separate program that works outside. They simply don't intersect.
As long as interviews happen in the browser, Sobes Overlay will work undetectably.