Applying for a free laptop online? PIB says this viral claim is fake

The Press Information Bureau's (PIB) Fact Check unit has dismissed a viral WhatsApp message claiming that the Government of India is accepting applications for free laptops under the so-called ‘National Student Laptop Scheme 2026’.

In a post shared on X on Thursday, the fact-checking agency clarified that no such scheme has been announced by the government and warned citizens against falling for misleading messages circulating online.

Viral message claims free laptops for students

Drawing attention to the message, PIB Fact Check said:

"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,"

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The message contains a link that encourages users to apply for the alleged scheme by providing personal information. According to an image shared by PIB Fact Check, the website asks users to submit details such as their name, educational qualifications and other personal information.

The fraudulent message also falsely claims that more than 9.6 lakh students will receive free laptops in 2026.

Government says no such scheme exists

PIB Fact Check reiterated that the Government of India has not launched or announced any programme called the ‘National Student Laptop Scheme 2026’.

The agency cautioned that such messages are often designed to collect personal or financial information from unsuspecting users. It advised people to verify claims through official government channels before responding to online offers or schemes.

“Stay alert and report suspicious content to the appropriate authorities,” the fact-check unit said in its post.

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Users urged to avoid suspicious links

The fact-checking agency also asked citizens not to click on unknown links and to avoid forwarding unverified messages without checking their authenticity.

The clarification comes as similar claims continue to circulate on social media platforms. PIB Fact Check noted that it had previously debunked nearly identical messages on April 27 and January 12, again confirming that no such laptop distribution programme existed.

The agency once again urged users to rely on official sources and verify information before sharing it with others, particularly when messages request personal details or promise government benefits.