With the widespread adoption of distance education, online examinations have become a central component of assessment and evaluation processes in higher education. However, ensuring exam security in online environments poses significant challenges, particularly with regard to authentication processes. In this context, authentication schemes used in online exams need to be examined in line with fundamental information security principles.

This book chapter examines authentication schemes used in online examinations within the framework of information security and evaluates them based on the CIA Triad (confidentiality, integrity, and availability). Knowledge-based, possession-based, and biometric authentication schemes are discussed in the context of online exams, focusing on their implications for exam security, user experience, and the protection of personal data. In addition, thematic evaluations based on the perspectives of instructors and university students are used to highlight how these authentication schemes influence the reliability of online examinations.

The evaluations indicate that relying on a single authentication scheme may be insufficient to ensure secure online examinations. Accordingly, the chapter suggests adopting context-aware and multi-factor authentication approaches that holistically address the dimensions of the CIA Triad, taking into account the nature and risk level of the exam. Accordingly, the chapter aims to contribute to both theoretical and practical discussions on online exam security.