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

**Executive Summary** This document is a notification issued by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, dated November 26, 2025, regarding the circulation of fake information using MeitY's name, logos, and authority. It advises the public and stakeholders to be cautious of unverified information and outlines legal actions against those involved in spreading misinformation. It also addresses the unauthorized use of government recruitment names, logos and exam content for commercial purposes. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Information Alert:** * 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" is being circulated on social media (WhatsApp). * The public is warned against believing or forwarding unverified messages claiming to be from MeitY. * Information should only be verified through MeitY's official website and communication channels. * **Unauthorized Activities:** * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, provide job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification. * Platforms are misusing official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards etc.) to sell courses, promote materials, publish unofficial keys, and create "official-looking" content. * **Legal Consequences:** * Creating or circulating fake information is illegal and a serious offense under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * Violators will face strict legal action under various acts including: * Indian Penal Code (IPC): Impersonation and Fraud, with penalties of imprisonment and fines. * IT Act, 2000: Online impersonation/cheating, with imprisonment and fines. * Emblems & Names Act, 1950: Improper use of names/emblems, with fines and/or imprisonment. * Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Misleading Advertisements, with fines and suspension. * IT Rules 2021: Permanent blocking of channels, removal of content, and suspension of accounts involved * **Reporting:** * The public is urged to report suspicious content via email at webmaster@meity.gov.in or through the official website https://www.meity.gov.in. **Impact Analysis** **Impact: General Public and Stakeholders** * **Impact:** May encounter misleading or false information related to MeitY and government recruitment. * **Action Required:** Exercise caution and verify all information received through official MeitY channels (website and communication channels). **Impact: Individuals/Online Platforms Misusing MeitY's Name and Recruitment Content** * **Impact:** Subject to strict legal action, including imprisonment and fines, for illegal activities. * **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized use of MeitY's name, logos, and recruitment-related content for commercial purposes. **Impact: Social Media Platforms (YouTube, Telegram, etc.)** * **Impact:** Subject to content removal, channel/account suspension, and potential permanent blocking for hosting or facilitating the spread of misinformation. * **Action Required:** Monitor content for misleading information related to MeitY and government recruitments, remove violating content, and suspend or block offending accounts.

Key Entities Referenced