CBSE Class 12 math paper QR code scans to YouTube ‘Rickroll’, board says exam security not compromised; watch
PTC Web Desk: An unusual incident during the CBSE Class 12 Mathematics examination on March 9 has left many students both surprised and amused after a QR code printed on the question paper allegedly redirected them to a YouTube video instead of the expected verification details.
According to several students, scanning the QR code using their mobile devices did not lead to authentication information related to the exam paper. Instead, it reportedly opened a link to the popular song “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley on YouTube, a prank widely recognised online as “rickrolling”.
In today’s episode of how serious our examination conducting authorities are- presenting to you CBSE class 12th board maths paper which has a QR code that opens rickroll’s song on YouTube ????????♂️ pic.twitter.com/gvQcsVvGVp
— Nehr_who? (@Nher_who) March 9, 2026
The Central Board of Secondary Education, India Rickrolled 2.5 million students by printing a Youtube QR code on the Maths question paper pic.twitter.com/jSl3TlkjjV — Mogambo (@Netajinonsense1) March 9, 2026
The unexpected redirect quickly became a talking point on social media, where students shared their experiences and screenshots. Many users reacted humorously, calling it one of the most unexpected “rickrolls” they had encountered.
One social media user joked that it was the “best rickroll ever” considering the number of students who scanned the code, while another remarked humorously that the year 2026 had already started with a surprising twist.
Responding to the controversy, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) acknowledged that concerns had been raised by students and parents. However, the board clarified that the question papers used in the examination were authentic and that the integrity of the exam system remained intact.
The CBSE also assured that the issue has been taken seriously and is being looked into, while reiterating that there was no breach of security or compromise in the examination process.
Important Update:
Press Release issued by CBSE pic.twitter.com/HqhdjYo23q — CBSE HQ (@cbseindia29) March 10, 2026
The unusual episode has since sparked widespread discussion online, with many students finding humour in the situation even as questions were raised about the functioning of the QR code printed on the official exam paper.
- With inputs from agencies
