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 using MeitY's name and logo. It cautions the public against unverified information and unauthorized activities, emphasizing the legal consequences for offenders. The advisory includes penalties and actions for those misusing government recruitment information for commercial activities. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Information:** 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" is being circulated. * **Unauthorized Activities:** Certain individuals or online platforms are falsely using MeitY's name, logo, and authority to circulate misleading information. * **Public Advisory:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages claiming to be from MeitY. * Verify information only through official MeitY channels. * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, data, or provide services without official notification. * **Legal Consequences:** Strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in creating or circulating fake information. * **Reporting:** Suspicious content can be reported via email (webmaster@meity.gov.in) or the official website (https://www.meity.gov.in). * **Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities:** * It is notified that no YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centers, websites, or social media pages are authorized to use the names, emblems, or examination content. * Several platforms are misusing official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards etc.). * **Punishments for Violation:** * Under Indian Penal Code (IPC): * Section 170-Impersonation of a public authority, Up to 2 years imprisonment + fine. * Section 420-Cheating and fraud, Up to 7 years imprisonment + fine. * Under IT Act, 2000: * Section 66D-Online impersonation / cheating, Up to 3 years imprisonment + 1,00,000 fine. * Under Emblems & Names Act, 1950: * Improper use of Government names/emblems, Fine up to 25,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment. * Under Consumer Protection Act. 2019 * Misleading advertisements, Fine up to 10 lakh + account suspension. * Platform Action (IT Rules 2021) * Permanent blocking of YouTube/Telegram channels * Removal of misleading content * Suspension of accounts involved **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders** * **Impact:** Increased awareness and caution regarding unverified information related to MeitY. Need to verify information through official channels to avoid being misled. * **Action Required:** Verify any messages, advertisements, or communications claiming to be issued by MeitY through official sources. **Individuals and Platforms Misusing MeitY's Name and Logo** * **Impact:** Face potential legal action under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized use of MeitY's name, logo, and authority immediately. **Government Recruitment Platforms:** * **Impact:** They may no longer be able to use the names, emblems, or examination content of government recruitments for commercial purposes or promotional activities. * **Action Required:** Refrain from using any Government Recruitment Board related materials for commercial or promotional purposes.

Key Entities Referenced