Claim
A message circulating on WhatsApp and social media platforms claims that the Government of India is offering free laptops to students under a program called the “National Student Laptop Scheme 2026.” The message includes a link directing users to submit personal information, including their name, educational details, and other personal data, to supposedly apply for the scheme. It also claims that more than 9.6 lakh students will receive free laptops in 2026.
Fact Check
the Government of India has not announced any scheme called the “National Student Laptop Scheme 2026.” The viral message is fake and misleading.
What Factcheck India Found?
- No such laptop distribution scheme has been launched by the Government of India.
- The circulating WhatsApp message is fake.
- Citizens should avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links.
- Personal information should not be shared on unverified websites.
- Users should verify government-related announcements through official sources before sharing them.
Similar False Claims Have Surfaced Before
This is not the first time such claims have appeared online. We have noted that similar messages promoting free laptop schemes have circulated in the past and were also declared fake. Previous fact-checks issued in January and April 2026 similarly confirmed that no nationwide government laptop distribution scheme under this name exists.
The recurrence of such messages highlights how fraudsters often recycle misleading claims to attract clicks and gather user information.
How to Identify Such Scams
Students and parents should be cautious if a message:
- Promises free government benefits without official notification.
- Requests personal information through unofficial websites.
- Uses urgent language encouraging immediate registration.
- Contains suspicious or shortened web links.
- Lacks references to official government portals.
Government schemes are typically announced through official ministries, government websites, and verified social media accounts.
Conclusion
The claim that the Government of India is accepting applications under a “National Student Laptop Scheme 2026” is false. PIB Fact Check has confirmed that no such scheme has been announced. Users are advised not to click on suspicious links or share personal information through unverified websites. Factcheck India warns that such messages may be designed to collect personal or financial information from unsuspecting users through fraudulent websites and links.