Free laptops for students? Here’s the truth behind National Student Laptop Scheme WhatsApp message

Free Laptop Scheme: India has seen an exponential surge in the number of digital scams. The scammers have found new ways to loot people and one such scam is the ‘Free Laptop Scheme for students’. Many users on X claimed that they have received a WhatsApp message claiming that the Government is accepting applications for free laptops under the ‘National Student Laptop Scheme 2026’.

Now, the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit has issued a warning against a viral WhatsApp message. In a post shared on social media, PIB Fact Check clarified that no such programme has been announced by the Government of India. The agency labelled the circulating message as fake and cautioned users against engaging with links or forms associated with the claim.

💻 Free laptops for students?

A WhatsApp message is circulating claiming that the Government is accepting applications for free laptops under the ‘National Student Laptop Scheme 2026’.#PIBFactCheck:

❌ This claim is #FAKE.

✅ The Government of India has NOT announced any… pic.twitter.com/uZ9iPy5JRL

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) June 4, 2026

Dont click on that link

As per the fact-checking unit, such messages are often designed to trick users into sharing sensitive personal or financial information. Citizens have been advised not to click on unknown links and to verify government-related announcements only through official sources before forwarding them to others.

The viral message claims that students can register to receive free laptops under a nationwide scheme and directs users to an online application form. It reportedly asks details such as a student’s name, educational qualifications, age and other personal information.

While the central government has denied the existence of any such laptop distribution programme, several state governments have launched their own initiatives in the past to provide digital devices to eligible students. These schemes are generally targeted at meritorious students or those from economically weaker sections and are administered at the state level rather than through a nationwide programme.

Tips to stay safe

• Verify every government scheme through official websites before applying or sharing information.
• Avoid clicking unknown links or filling out forms received through WhatsApp forwards and social media posts.
• Never share Aadhaar, bank details, passwords, or OTPs on unverified websites.
• Report suspicious messages to PIB Fact Check and avoid forwarding unverified claims.