The National Testing Agency (NTA) issued a warning to students and parents regarding Telegram scams attempting to defraud individuals with fake NEET Re-Exam 2026 paper sales. The NTA confirmed the re-exam is scheduled for Sunday, June 21, 2026 .
Scam Details and NTA Warning
Scammers on Telegram channels are demanding sums ranging from ₹14,000 to ₹25,000, and in some cases, up to ₹10 lakh. They falsely claim to provide the NEET Re-Exam paper. The NTA stated these claims are fraudulent and assured that no paper has been leaked.
The agency warned that any money transferred to these scammers is lost. Scammers reportedly use the transferred money to obtain admit card details and WhatsApp numbers. These details are then used to target subsequent students.
The NTA also highlighted the use of "Fake Proof Videos." These videos show edited Telegram messages, appearing to be sent before the exam. Scammers exploit Telegram's "Message edit" feature. This allows them to alter message content without changing the original timestamp.
This tactic is expected to continue after June 21, 2026. Students and parents are urged not to fall for these scams, to avoid forwarding such messages, and not to pay any money.
Technical Explanation of Telegram Scam
Professor V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras and Member of the National Security Advisory Board, provided a technical explanation of the Telegram scam. He demonstrated how the "Message edit" feature can be misused to create fake evidence of paper leaks.
Professor Kamakoti’s demonstration showed a student sending a file. A minute later, the message was edited, replacing the original file with a different one. The edited message retained its original timestamp, creating a false impression of authenticity.
This same method was previously used to fake leaks for JEE Advanced and the IISER Aptitude Test. The NTA is using this information to educate candidates and parents.
NEET Re-Exam 2026 Information
The NEET 2026 Re-Exam will be conducted on June 21, 2026 . The previous exam, held on May 3, 2026, was canceled due to paper leak allegations.
The NTA has extended the exam duration by 15 minutes for the upcoming re-exam. The timing will now be from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM, instead of the earlier 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM slot.
Admit cards for the NEET UG 2026 re-exam were issued on June 14, 2026 . Candidates must carry a printed copy of their admit card and a valid ID proof to the examination center.
It is advised that candidates arrive at the exam center at least one hour before the commencement of the exam. This allows ample time for biometric verification and to avoid being late.
