Circulation of Fake Information in the Name of the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology

**Executive Summary** This notification from the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), dated November 26, 2025, addresses the circulation of fake information, specifically a false notice dated November 25, 2025, regarding a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities." The Ministry advises the public and stakeholders to verify information and cautions against unauthorized use of its name and emblems. Actions violating these rules will face strict legal repercussions. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Unauthorized Activity:** * Fake notices, dated November 25, 2025, are circulating on social media (WhatsApp). * Individuals and online platforms are misusing MeitY's name, logo, and authority. * This includes unauthorized use of Government Recruitment Board names, emblems, or examination content on YouTube, Telegram, or other social media for commercial purposes or promotional activities. * Misleading activities include selling courses, promoting materials, publishing unofficial keys and cutoffs, analysing papers, and creating "official-looking" content. * **Advisory and Warnings:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages claiming to be from MeitY. * Verify information only through MeitY's official website and channels. * MeitY has not authorized third parties to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers without official notification. * **Legal Consequences:** * Creation or circulation of fake information will result in strict legal action. * Violators face punishments under various laws, including the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Emblems & Names Act, 1950, and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. * Penalties range from fines to imprisonment and include account suspension and permanent blocking of channels under IT Rules 2021. **Impact Analysis** **General Public** * **Impact:** Increased awareness needed to distinguish between authentic and fake communications and avoiding misinformation. * **Action Required:** Verify information through official sources; refrain from forwarding unverified content. Report suspicious content. **Stakeholders (including online platforms, coaching centres, individuals)** * **Impact:** Need to cease unauthorized use of MeitY's name, emblems, and government recruitment content. * **Action Required:** Comply with the regulations, remove misleading content, and avoid commercial activities that misuse government information. Be aware of legal consequences for non-compliance.

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