Viral WhatsApp message promising free laptop for students is a scam: Here’s the truth

A WhatsApp scam promising free laptops to students is spreading fast. PIB Fact Check confirms no such government scheme exists.

Published By: Shubham Arora | Published: Apr 28, 2026, 11:22 AM (IST) | Edited: Apr 28, 2026, 11:23 AM (IST)

A new WhatsApp message is being widely shared, claiming that students can get free laptops. The message states that the government is accepting applications for free laptops under the "National Student Laptop Scheme 2026". It also contains a link that redirects users to an application form. The message may look like a regular government scheme; however, PIB Fact Check has flagged it as fake. Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026 fever reaches WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook with new features

As per the authority, no such scheme has been announced by the Government of India. The message is said to be a scam designed to collect user data. Scams like these have surfaced in the past as well. Also Read: Forget birthday reminders? WhatsApp may soon schedule messages for you

What the scam claims

The widely circulated WhatsApp message claims that students can apply for a free laptop under a new government scheme. It often includes a link that looks like a registration page. Also Read: How to hide locked chats on WhatsApp

Most scam messages like these use terms like "government portal" or "registration open now" to make them look genuine. In some cases, they may also ask users to share the message with others before applying.

They also target emotionally vulnerable students who are unable to afford laptops due to financial reasons. This is where most people fall for it, especially users who are looking for such opportunities.

How the scam works

The message usually asks you to click on a link to apply. Once you open it, it takes you to a page that looks like a normal form. It then asks for your name, phone number, and a few additional details in some cases.

Sometimes, it goes a step further and asks for a small fee to "complete" the process. In a few cases, people have even been asked to enter an OTP.

That's where the risk is. The moment you share these details, they can be used later. You might start getting random calls, or worse, lose money if banking details or OTPs are involved.

What authorities have said

PIB Fact Check has already said this is fake. There is no such free laptop scheme. They've also pointed out that messages like this are usually meant to collect your personal or financial details.

https://www.twitter.com/PIBFactCheck/status/2048690628415148453

How to stay safe

  • If you get a message like this, don't click on the link. Even if it looks real, just leave it.
  • If you're curious, go check the official website yourself instead of trusting a forwarded message.
  • Don't share your details, OTP, or bank info on random links.
  • And don't forward it to others. That's how these things spread in the first place.
  • If you want, you can report it to PIB Fact Check so it can be flagged.

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