In Canada, the PIC is designated to the student taking the flight test, and the examiner as a passenger. Having said that, I have not heard of the examiner attempting to fool or trap the student taking the flight test. That is anti-productive and unacceptable in my opinion, even for a guy whos fresh off getting his license like I am.
I understand the PIC's obvious need to be aware of all goings on, including air space restrictions, etc. But there should be a line drawn in a test situation. I agree it sounds somewhate fabricated.