There has been an increasing demand for
browser
security
and
online privacy
tools
in the digital age. One such tool that has garnered attention in the educational sector is the Castle
Learning
Lockdown
Chrome extension
.
The Concept
This chrome extension is designed to foster a
secure browsing
environment for students during assessments. The idea is to enable the browser lockdown when teachers or administrators assign tasks through Castle Learning. If enabled and installed on the student's device, the chrome extension will close all other tabs and prevent the opening of new browser windows or tabs, thereby promoting focused learning.
User Reviews and Ratings
Despite the promising concept, this chrome extension has received a dismal aggregate rating of 1.8 out of 5 in the Chrome web store. From privacy concerns to complaints about the browser's performance, users have expressed their dissatisfaction with the extension.
Identifying the Problem
From the user feedback, it's clear that the extension has had detrimental effects on computer performance for some users. One user, Dxbblez, pointed out that their computer became significantly slower and more buggy after installing the extension. Such issues raise concerns about the chrome extension permissions and whether they might inadvertently compromise the device's web security.
Privacy Concerns
In addition, privacy protection is a significant factor when considering chrome extensions. Users need to trust that their online security isn't being compromised when they install an extension. However, the Castle Learning Lockdown extension's low rating indicates a breach of this trust.
Is it Worth it?
While the concept of promoting focused learning by limiting browser activity during assessments is commendable, the execution falls short. Given the negative impact on device performance and potential privacy issues, we advise against installing this extension until these concerns are addressed and resolved.
Alternatives
There are other top chrome extensions available in the Chrome web store that prioritize safe browsing, parental control, and internet security without compromising on device performance or privacy settings. We recommend exploring such alternatives for a more secure and efficient online experience.
11 Reviews For This Extension
Let it be known that the reviews that people have given for this application (and other things tied to an LMS or Learning Management System like Teams, Schoology, Google Classroom, Moodle, Canvas, etc.) are from disgruntled students whose parents are unaware of their children's fraudulent statements on the internet. The one from "Diddy Kitten" is definitely from a 6th grader whose teachers celebrate when he is absent and hopes that he stays that way. As an educator though, having the opportunity to lock a student's webpage down is crucial. And though it's not especially done well by any program (it's fine enough by this one, but in no means perfect), it's best to have something like this than to not.
sucks
meh. bland design and closes most of my windows. kinda of annoying but i understand the purpose.
It doesn't work and Im not computer illiterate. It wont open or work and allow me to take a quiz for school I would give it negative 100 if I could
This app accessed my web cam and displayed it to Russia, they stole my data and are now holding it for ransom. It sent emails out to my organization and now I've been fired (for harassment of other employees) thanks to this app. I deleted it and it reinstalled itself and downloaded malware onto my organization account; deserves 0 stars, fix your app.
it blocks all websites needed to have fun
Absolutely trash. Blocks good websites needed for certain dumb classes TRASH!!!!!
Terrible do not download it view privacy information and should be taken down please look over this wbesite before downloading. I stronglly suggest you don't download this unless you have to.
does not work
Terrible product computer has been slower and more buggy ever since I downloaded it so I can focus I am having problems deleting this malicious extension
It ate my students, it hacked my pc and deleted all my data. Do not install castle learning as it hacks you.