A WhatsApp message claiming that the government has launched a nationwide “National Student Laptop Scheme” is fake. As of August 28, 2026, there is no nationwide government scheme offering free laptops to students, according to the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check unit.
The fake message usually contains a link asking students to fill out a form or provide personal information. Such links may be designed to steal sensitive data or trick users into making small payments.
Students are advised to delete the message, avoid clicking on the link and warn their classmates about the scam.
How to Identify the Fake Laptop Scheme
| Claim | Fact |
|---|---|
| The Centre is offering free laptops through an online form. | No such nationwide scheme exists; the claim is fake. |
| Students must pay a small fee to receive a laptop. | Genuine government schemes do not ask for fees or OTPs through WhatsApp. |
| The message contains government logos, so it is genuine. | Logos and screenshots can be easily misused and are not proof of authenticity. |
A link on a .com or .org website is official. | Government announcements should be verified through official .gov.in or .nic.in websites. |
How to Verify Genuine Student Schemes
Students should first check the website address before submitting any information. Genuine government announcements are published through official government portals, ministry websites, PIB releases and authorised institutional portals.
Students should also check the date of the official notification, issuing authority and details of the scheme. Information can be cross-checked through the concerned ministry’s official channels or the student’s institute portal.
Users should be particularly cautious about links asking them to fill out Google Forms, pay a fee or act quickly because of a “first come, first served” offer.
Check Scholarships Through the National Scholarship Portal
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is the official platform for several central and state scholarship schemes. Students can check eligibility, application timelines and scheme-specific conditions through the portal.
Scholarship applications are verified by institutions and the relevant authorities, while eligible beneficiaries receive payments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Students should never pay an unofficial fee or share their OTP, password or banking credentials to apply for a government benefit.
What to Do If You Clicked the Link
If you have already clicked the suspicious link or lost money, act immediately. Report financial cyber fraud by calling 1930 and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
Keep screenshots of the WhatsApp message, suspicious link and any transaction details while filing the complaint.
Suspicious government-related claims can also be sent to PIB Fact Check for verification. Most importantly, never share your OTP, passwords, PINs or other sensitive information through WhatsApp or unfamiliar websites.
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