Safety Guide
Avoiding Free Laptop Scams
Unfortunately, "free laptop" searches attract scam sites. Here's what to watch for, and how to verify a program is legitimate before you apply.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Any site charging an upfront "processing fee" purely to submit a government laptop application
- Guaranteed-free-laptop links shared through unsolicited text messages, social media DMs, or pop-up ads
- Requests for payment via gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency to "unlock" or "release" a free device
- Sites advertising an active Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) application — this program ended June 1, 2024
- Urgent countdown timers or "only 3 spots left today" pressure tactics
- Requests for your full Social Security number, bank login, or card PIN early in an application process
- Poor grammar, mismatched URLs, or a domain that doesn't match the organization name it claims to represent
Safe Practices
- Stick to established nonprofit (.org) or government (.gov) sources whenever possible
- Work through the organizations and programs listed and linked directly on this site
- Type website addresses directly rather than clicking links from unsolicited messages
- Never send money via gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency for a "free" program
- Ask your caseworker or a trusted local nonprofit if you're ever unsure whether an offer is legitimate
- Remember: legitimate free laptop programs never require payment to simply apply
About the Closed ACP Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program ended June 1, 2024. If you see a website advertising an active ACP application today, treat it as outdated at best and a potential scam at worst. Learn more on our ACP program page.