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

**Executive Summary** This document from the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), dated November 26, 2025, addresses 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 document advises the public and stakeholders to verify information and avoid unauthorized sources, and warns of strict legal action against offenders. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Misinformation Alert:** * A fake notice dated November 25, 2025, concerning a strict ban on using government recruitment-related information for commercial purposes is circulating. * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification. * **Guidance for the Public:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages or communications claiming to be issued by MeitY. * Always verify information on the official MeitY website. * **Prohibited Activities:** * Unauthorized use of government names, emblems, or examination content is strictly prohibited. * This includes using such information for selling courses, promotional activities, or commercial purposes on platforms like YouTube, Telegram, and social media. * Examples of misuse include selling paid courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys/cutoffs, and analyzing previous question papers. * **Legal Consequences:** * Anyone involved in creating or circulating fake information or violating the stated rules will face strict legal action. * Penalties may include imprisonment and/or fines under laws such as the Indian Penal Code (IPC), IT Act 2000, Emblems & Names Act 1950, and Consumer Protection Act 2019. * Platform action under IT Rules 2021 includes blocking channels, removing misleading content, and suspending accounts. * **Contact Information:** * For clarification or to report suspicious content, contact webmaster@meity.gov.in or visit https://www.meity.gov.in. **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders** * **Impact** * Need to be cautious of misinformation circulating online. * Ensuring the information that they are consuming is valid and authentic. * **Action Required** * Verify information through official MeitY channels. * Report suspicious content. * Do not forward any unverified messages. **Online Platforms (YouTube, Telegram, Social Media)** * **Impact** * Responsible for the content posted on their platforms and will face legal action for not complying with the notice. * **Action Required** * Monitor and remove misleading content. * Block channels or suspend accounts involved in spreading misinformation. * Cooperate with authorities in investigations. **Individuals/Coaching Centers/Organizations** * **Impact** * Prohibited from using government recruitment names, logos, or exam content for commercial purposes. * **Action Required** * Cease all unauthorized activities. * Comply with the notification to avoid legal penalties.

Key Entities Referenced