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, warns the public about the circulation of fake notices and misleading information related to government recruitment. It clarifies that no entities are authorized to use government names, logos, or exam content for commercial purposes. Violation of this notice will lead to strict legal action. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Notice:** 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 circulating via social media. * **Unauthorized Usage:** MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, provide job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification. * **Prohibited Activities:** Platforms are prohibited from using government names, emblems, or examination content for selling courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys/cutoffs, or creating "official-looking" content. * **Legal Consequences:** Violators will face strict legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the IT Act 2000, the Emblems & Names Act 1950, and the Consumer Protection Act 2019. Penalties include imprisonment, fines, and account suspension. * **Platform Action:** The IT Rules 2021 will be enforced, leading to the permanent blocking of YouTube/Telegram channels, removal of misleading content, and suspension of involved accounts. **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders** * **Impact:** The general public and stakeholders are at risk of being misled by fake notices, advertisements, and online platforms. * **Action Required:** Verify information through the official MeitY website and communication channels (https://www.meity.gov.in); do not believe or forward unverified messages; report suspicious content to webmaster@meity.gov.in. **YouTube, Telegram, and Other Social Media Platforms** * **Impact:** YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centres, websites, or social media pages could be permanently blocked, their content removed, and accounts suspended for misuse. * **Action Required:** Ensure compliance with the notification by preventing the unauthorized use of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content; remove any existing infringing content. **Individuals and Coaching Centers** * **Impact:** Individuals and coaching centres involved in creating or circulating fake information, or in the unauthorized use of government names/content, face strict legal actions, including fines, imprisonment, and potential suspension or closure of operations. * **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized use of government names, logos, and exam content for commercial or promotional purposes; refrain from circulating fake information.

Key Entities Referenced