Highlight
- Modi government to give free laptops to youth under prime minister free laptop scheme 2023?
- PIB fact check reveals the truth about the notice.
The menace of fake news has reached alarming levels globally, driven by the extensive usage of digital platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter.
To counter this rise in misinformation, there is a pressing need for active fact-checking units worldwide.
A recent incident involved scammers spreading untrue information, falsely claiming that the Indian government is distributing free laptops to students.
A text message is circulating on various social media platforms, making false claims about the Ministry of Education offering complimentary laptops to students through the Free Laptop Scheme 2022.
The message prompts recipients to verify their eligibility by clicking on a link provided within the text.
“The Ministry of Education has a distribution schedule for laptops to be given out to families to help support virtual learning this fall. To check eligibility visit…” reads the message.
However, the fact check wing of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has now posted on X (previously known as Twitter) that there is no such scheme being run by the government.
“A text message with a website link is circulating on social media which claims that @EduMinOfIndia is offering 500,000 free laptops to all students…#PIBFactCheck…The circulated link is #Fake…The government is not running any such scheme,” the message reads.
According to multiple media reports, this is the full message circulated by the name of the Indian government, “The government of India has been launched this Prime Minister Free Laptop Scheme which is specially for all the India State, all the eligible students can apply for the PM Free Laptop Scheme though official website www.pmflsgovt.in.
The Indian government has announced that all the students of class XI, XII, B.A-1st, B.A-2nd, B.A-3rd, B.A-4th, B.A-5th, and B.A-6th Semester that can be registered under Prime Minister Free Laptop Scheme.
Will have to submit the registration form for the academic year 2023-24 and keep visiting the official website of the authority as they will get the link of Prime Minister Free Laptop Scheme.
They have to login and fill in the required details.
So go through this official website and all the details before applying for Prime Minister Free Laptop Scheme.
The Government of India decided providing Lenovo Intel Celeron Dual Core (8GB/256 GB SSD/Windows 11) laptop will be credited.
The Prime Minister Free Laptop Scheme amount to bank account with the period of academic session 2023-24.”
FAQs
Q1. What is fake news?
Answer. Fake news refers to false or misleading information presented as genuine news. It is often spread through digital platforms, aiming to deceive readers and manipulate public opinion.
Q2. How to Identify Fake News Messages?
Answer. Recognizing the signs of fake news has become a crucial skill. Here are some actionable pointers to help readers identify deceptive news messages swiftly and effectively.
- Analyse the language and tone. Sensationalism, excessive emotions, or extreme bias could indicate fake news.
- Verify the credibility of the source. Reliable news outlets are more trustworthy.
- Investigate the author’s credentials and expertise. A lack of author information can be a red flag.
- Consult multiple sources to confirm the news. Reputable sites often report similar information.
- Fake news often uses manipulated or out-of-context images. Use reverse image search tools.
- Outdated news presented as recent can mislead. Always check the publication date.
- Evaluate the website’s design, spelling, and grammar. Professional news sites invest in quality presentations.
- Fake news often aims to evoke strong emotions. Stay sceptical if a news piece triggers extreme reactions.
Q3. Why is fake news dangerous?
Answer. Fake news can distort public perception, influence decisions, and even incite violence. It undermines trust in media, institutions, and democratic processes, posing significant threats to society.
Q4. What can I do to combat fake news?
Answer. Be cautious online, share information responsibly, promote media literacy, and support organizations that fact-check news. Educating others about critical thinking and reliable sources also contributes to combating the spread of fake news.
Q5. What is PIB fact check?
Answer. PIB Fact Check is an initiative by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) of the Government of India to counter misinformation and fake news. It aims to authenticate and debunk dubious claims circulating in the public domain.
PIB Fact Check scrutinizes viral messages, social media posts, and news articles, providing accurate information with credible sources to help the public differentiate between genuine news and false narratives. This initiative plays a vital role in promoting media literacy and ensuring that accurate information reaches the public.
Also Read: 3 YouTube Accounts Busted for Spreading Fake News in India
Also Read: Facebook to remove more fake news about Covid-19, vaccines