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

**Executive Summary** This document is a notification from the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, dated November 26, 2025, addressing the circulation of fake information, specifically a fake 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 notification advises the public and stakeholders to verify information through official channels and cautions against unauthorized third-party activities. It warns of strict legal action against those involved in the creation or circulation of false information. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Information Alert:** * MeitY has identified a fake notice, dated November 25, 2025, concerning a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities," circulating on social media. * The unauthorized use of MeitY's name, logo, and authority is considered illegal under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * **Advisory to the Public:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages, advertisements, or communications claiming to be issued by MeitY. * Verify information only through MeitY's official website and communication channels. * MeitY has not authorized third parties to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification. * **Prohibition of Unauthorized Use:** * YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centers, websites, and social media pages are prohibited from using government recruitment names, emblems, or examination content for commercial or promotional activities. * This includes notifications, question papers, answer keys, cutoff data, previous paper analysis, or any material resembling official content. * Platforms are misusing official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards etc.) to sell courses, promote materials, publish keys/cutoffs, and analyze papers. * Such actions are unauthorized, misleading, and illegal. * **Legal Consequences:** * Strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in creating or circulating fake information, violating the bans. * Violations are punishable under various laws, including the Indian Penal Code (IPC), IT Act 2000, Emblems & Names Act 1950, Consumer Protection Act 2019, and IT Rules 2021. * Punishments may include imprisonment, fines, and suspension of accounts. **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders:** * **Impact:** Increased awareness and caution required regarding information received from unofficial sources. * **Action Required:** Verify all information related to MeitY through official channels (website and communication channels). Report any suspicious content to webmaster@meity.gov.in or https://www.meity.gov.in. **Individuals and Online Platforms Misusing Information:** * **Impact:** Potential legal action, including imprisonment and fines, if found creating or circulating fake information. * **Action Required:** Immediately cease all unauthorized use of government recruitment names, logos, emblems, and examination content for commercial or promotional purposes. **MeitY (Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology):** * **Impact:** Enhanced responsibility to protect its reputation and prevent the spread of misinformation. * **Action Required:** Monitor and address instances of fake information circulation. Continue to inform the public about authorized communication channels.

Key Entities Referenced