CBSE Warns of Strict Action Against Fake Paper Leak Claims Ahead of 2026 Board Exams

In a preemptive move to safeguard the integrity of its annual examinations, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a stern warning against the spread of misinformation regarding paper leaks as Class 10 and 12 board exams begin today, February 17, 2026.

The education authority released an official notice specifically addressing the recurring problem of false claims about question paper leakages on social media platforms, a phenomenon that has plagued examination seasons in previous years.

According to the CBSE, certain elements have historically attempted to disseminate fabricated information during examination periods. These misleading messages typically contain false claims about leaked Class 10 or Class 12 question papers. In some cases, entirely counterfeit question papers have been circulated online and misrepresented as authentic.

The Board emphasized that these claims are baseless and designed to create confusion among students and stakeholders. Officials expressed concern that such rumors could significantly impact students’ concentration during this critical academic period.

“Unwarranted panic might arise from believing, sharing, or forwarding unverified messages,” the CBSE stated in its notice. “When students need to be calm and focused on their preparation, rumors can disrupt their readiness and generate unnecessary anxiety.”

In its advisory, the Board urged parents, students, and schools to exercise responsibility by avoiding unverified information circulating on social media platforms. This appeal comes as millions of students across India prepare for these high-stakes examinations that significantly influence their academic and career trajectories.

Addressing concerns about examination security, the CBSE assured all stakeholders that robust arrangements are in place to ensure examinations proceed smoothly, securely, and fairly. The Board referenced its track record of implementing strong mechanisms to maintain examination integrity, noting that similar security measures have been successfully deployed in previous years.

The notice included a clear warning that any attempts to spread misinformation or disrupt the examination process would be “addressed most sternly” in accordance with relevant rules and regulations. This firm stance reflects the CBSE’s commitment to protecting the credibility of its assessment system and ensuring a level playing field for all candidates.

To combat the potential spread of false information, the Board has directed students, parents, and schools to rely exclusively on official communication channels for genuine updates and clarifications regarding the examinations. These authorized sources include the official CBSE website (https://www.cbse.gov.in), concerned regional CBSE offices, and the Board’s headquarters in New Delhi. Contact information for these official channels is available on the CBSE website.

The CBSE’s preemptive action comes amid growing concerns about the influence of social media on educational processes. In recent years, examination authorities across India have grappled with the rapid spread of misinformation through digital platforms, which has occasionally led to confusion and anxiety among students.

Education experts note that false claims of paper leaks can be particularly damaging to student morale and performance during examination periods. The psychological impact of such rumors can undermine years of preparation and potentially affect results.

The 2026 CBSE board examinations are significant academic milestones for millions of students across thousands of affiliated schools throughout India and overseas. The results of these examinations will play a crucial role in determining students’ eligibility for higher education opportunities and specialized courses.

As examinations commence today, school administrators and teachers have been advised to maintain vigilance and provide emotional support to students who may be affected by circulating rumors or misinformation.