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

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) issued a notification on November 26, 2025, addressing the circulation of fake information, specifically a "Strict Ban" notice dated November 25, 2025, regarding the unauthorized use of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content. The notification advises the public and stakeholders to be cautious and provides guidance on verifying information and reporting suspicious content. Any person found involved in the creation or circulation of fake information will face strict legal action. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Misinformation Alert:** * A fake notice regarding a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities" is being circulated. * Certain individuals and online platforms are falsely using MeitY's name, logo, and authority. * Such actions are illegal under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * **Public Advisory:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages claiming to be issued by MeitY. * Verify information only through MeitY's official website and communication channels. * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers/subsidies/grants/digital services without official notification. * **Prohibited Activities Regarding Exam Content:** * Unauthorized use of government recruitment names, emblems, or examination content (notifications, question papers, answer keys, cutoff data, previous paper analysis, etc.) is strictly banned for commercial or promotional activities by YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centers, websites, and social media pages. * Examples of prohibited activities include selling paid courses/batches, promoting study materials/mock tests, publishing unofficial keys/cutoffs, analysing previous question papers, and creating "official-looking" content/advertisements. * **Punishments for Violations:** * Violators will face strict legal action under various laws: * **Indian Penal Code (IPC):** Impersonation of a public authority (up to 2 years imprisonment + fine); Cheating and fraud (up to 7 years imprisonment + fine). * **IT Act, 2000:** Online impersonation/cheating (up to 3 years imprisonment + ₹1,00,000 fine). * **Emblems & Names Act, 1950:** Improper use of Government names/emblems (fine up to ₹5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment). * **Consumer Protection Act, 2019:** Misleading advertisements (fine up to ₹10 lakh + account suspension). * **IT Rules 2021 (Platform Action):** Permanent blocking of YouTube/Telegram channels, removal of misleading content, suspension of accounts involved. **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders** *Impact* Affected by misinformation circulating online, potentially leading to deception and financial loss. *Action Required* Verify all information related to MeitY through official channels. Be cautious of unverified messages and offers. Report suspicious content to webmaster@meity.gov.in or through the official website. **Individuals and Online Platforms Using MeitY's Name/Logo and Recruitment Content** *Impact* Subject to legal action under the Information Technology Act, 2000, Indian Penal Code, Emblems & Names Act, Consumer Protection Act, and IT Rules 2021, including potential fines, imprisonment, and account suspension. *Action Required* Immediately cease all unauthorized use of MeitY's name, logo, and government recruitment-related content for commercial or promotional purposes.

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