A QR code printed on the CBSE Class 12 Mathematics question paper has sparked online discussions after students claimed that scanning it redirected users to the music video of “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley, a well-known internet prank often referred to as “rickrolling.”
The Class 12 mathematics board examination, held on March 9 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, was conducted across India, including in Guwahati, where thousands of students appeared for the paper at CBSE-affiliated schools.
Soon after the exam concluded, images of the question paper began circulating on social media. Several students alleged that scanning the QR code printed on the paper led to the 1987 pop song’s music video.
A QR code printed on the CBSE Class 12 mathematics question paper sparked online buzz after students claimed scanning it redirected them to Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up,” a prank known as “rickrolling.” CBSE later clarified that the question papers were genuine and exam security remained uncompromised.
Social Media Posts Go Viral
Screenshots and short video clips began circulating widely on the social media platform X, where users demonstrated scanning the QR code printed on the question paper.
In one widely shared clip, a student scans the code using a mobile phone and is redirected to the music video of the popular 1987 song.
The incident quickly drew attention online, with many users commenting on the unusual occurrence during a national board examination.
Students in Guwahati who appeared for the exam also shared posts and discussions online, contributing to the viral trend.
CBSE Issues Clarification
In response to the growing speculation, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) issued an official press release on March 10 addressing the matter.
The board confirmed that the question papers used during the examination were authentic and that there had been no compromise in exam security.
In its statement, CBSE said:
“It is hereby confirmed by the Board that the question papers are genuine. The security of the question papers remains uncompromised.”
The board did not indicate any breach in examination protocols.
Exam Conducted Across Schools in Guwahati
The Class 12 mathematics exam was conducted in CBSE-affiliated schools across Guwahati, with students attending examination centres in various parts of the city.
For many students, the exam is considered one of the most significant papers in the Class 12 board examination schedule.
Following the exam, discussions among students in Guwahati primarily focused on the difficulty level of the paper and the unexpected online buzz surrounding the QR code.
What is ‘Rickrolling’?
“Rickrolling” is an internet prank that became popular in the late 2000s.
The prank typically involves a misleading link or QR code that redirects users to the music video of Rick Astley’s 1987 song “Never Gonna Give You Up.”
It has since become one of the most recognisable internet memes.
What Happens Next
CBSE has stated that the security and authenticity of the question paper remain intact, and the board examination process continues as scheduled.
Students in Guwahati and across India will now proceed with their remaining board exams as per the official CBSE examination timetable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What caused the QR code controversy in the CBSE maths exam?
Images circulating online showed that scanning the QR code on the Class 12 maths question paper allegedly redirected users to the Rick Astley song “Never Gonna Give You Up,” prompting discussions on social media.
Q. Did CBSE confirm any exam security breach?
No. CBSE clarified in an official statement that the question papers were genuine and that the security of the examination remained uncompromised.