New Delhi, June 17: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a strong advisory to students and parents ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 21, warning them against fraudsters who are allegedly exploiting social media platforms by offering fake “leaked question papers” in exchange for large sums of money.
The agency has assured candidates that extensive measures are being taken to ensure a secure and error-free examination process and has urged aspirants to focus on their preparations rather than fall prey to misinformation and scams.
According to the NTA, several online groups have been attempting to deceive students by claiming to possess advance access to the examination paper. Authorities said these groups have been demanding payments ranging from a few thousand rupees to several lakh rupees from anxious candidates seeking an advantage in the examination.
The agency reiterated that no question paper for the re-examination has been leaked and described all such claims as fraudulent.
NTA officials stated that a temporary suspension of the Telegram messaging platform until June 22 forms part of broader efforts to prevent the spread of misleading information and examination-related scams. The restriction is intended to curb the circulation of fabricated content and reduce opportunities for organized cheating networks to target students.
The agency warned that scammers often lure candidates by displaying screenshots, videos and messages that appear to show examination papers being shared before the test. According to officials, such content is frequently manipulated to create a false impression of authenticity.
One of the major concerns highlighted by the NTA involves the misuse of message-editing features that allow administrators to alter previously posted content while retaining the original timestamp. Officials said this capability has allegedly been used to create misleading evidence suggesting that examination papers were available before the scheduled test.
The agency explained that fraudsters can modify older messages and replace attachments after an examination has taken place, making it appear as though the material was shared in advance. Such tactics are then used to convince students that access to future examination papers can be purchased.
Authorities cautioned candidates that similar attempts may emerge following the June 21 re-test and urged them not to believe, circulate or pay for any material claiming to contain leaked question papers.
The NTA also warned students against sharing personal information such as admit cards, examination details or contact numbers with unknown individuals or groups. Officials noted that personal information obtained through such interactions can be misused to target other candidates or facilitate additional scams.
The re-examination is being conducted following the cancellation of the earlier NEET-UG 2026 test held on May 3. The agency has maintained that the decision was taken to protect the integrity of the examination process and ensure fairness for all candidates.
To facilitate the re-test within a compressed timeline, authorities have undertaken extensive logistical preparations. Special arrangements have been made to ensure secure transportation and handling of examination materials, with additional support being provided to maintain the sanctity of the process.
The agency emphasized that the June 21 examination will proceed as scheduled and advised candidates to rely exclusively on official communications issued through the NTA website and verified agency platforms.
Students and parents have also been encouraged to report suspicious approaches, fake claims or fraudulent activities to cybercrime authorities. Officials stressed that prompt reporting can help prevent others from becoming victims of similar schemes.
With thousands of medical aspirants preparing for the re-examination, the NTA has reiterated that success in the examination will depend on preparation and hard work rather than shortcuts promoted through social media scams.
The agency urged candidates to remain focused, avoid unverified information and trust only official sources for examination-related updates as the June 21 re-test approaches.
