A misleading message spreading rapidly online claims the government is distributing free laptops under a new ‘2025 scheme’.
PIB Fact Check has clarified that the information is completely fake.
Press Information Bureau urged the public not to engage with dubious links.
Designed to mimic an official announcement, the message carries a bogus Ministry of Education document featuring government logos, contact numbers and a link for applications. It even bears imitation seals and the national emblem to pass off as legitimate.
The PIB’s official account on X stated that the Centre has not introduced any such laptop distribution scheme.
The official added that the circulating message is a phishing scam targeting citizens’ personal and financial details. It reminded people to confirm any such information through authentic government portals.
Viral Free Laptop Scam
PIB Fact Check stated that a fake message is circulating claiming the Government of India is providing free laptops to students under a 2025 scheme.
The agency confirmed that the government has not announced any such scheme. It warned citizens to stay cautious. It also advised people not to share their personal information on fake links.
Beware of Fraudsters❗️
A message is being circulated with a link claiming that the central government is providing free laptops to students.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This message is #fake
🚫 Do not click on suspicious links
▶️ Always verify information through official sources pic.twitter.com/7PlyzaBsd7
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) October 7, 2025
Officials explained that several state governments, including Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, run localised programs for students.
These government initiatives provide laptops or tablets to meritorious students. There is no nationwide central government scheme offering free laptops in 2025.
Cybersecurity experts have cautioned that these phishing scams often trick users.
Scammers design these scams to lure users into entering sensitive information.
Furthermore, they can later misuse personal details, such as Aadhaar numbers, phone numbers and bank account information.
Readers are advised to treat any such offers with scepticism and to cross-check information through official portals like – (https://pib.g ov.in)/(https://pib.gov.in).
Citizens should verify government social media accounts and avoid forwarding unverified messages.
The Central Government has not announced any free laptop scheme for students in 2025. The viral WhatsApp message is a phishing scam aimed at misleading citizens and stealing personal data.
Also Read: PIB Fact Check Dismisses Fake Claim Linking PM Modi To Investment App
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