The Independent Commission on Examination Malpractice reports a "very low level of malpractice." But it says, "a total ban on all types of watches, as well as other internet devices, removes any possibility of candidates having non-sanctioned internet access during exams."

This isn't an entirely new idea, and some schools in the US have already banned watches from test rooms. But this is a recommendation for the UK's Office of Qualifications and Exam Regulation (Ofqual), which oversees all schools in the UK. Ofqual said it will work with the commission to implement its recommendations and will consider banning watches in all UK exams as soon as next summer.

Part of the problem, the commission says, is the "sophistication of internet-enabled devices." Years ago, students may have snuck calculator watches into exams, but those devices were more obvious than modern smartwatches. Of course, watches aren't the only way to cheat. The commission also recommends monitoring the dark web for the sale of exam papers and checking bathrooms during exams to make sure students haven't stashed notes or phones.