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

**Executive Summary** This document is a notification from the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), dated November 26, 2025, regarding the circulation of fake information, particularly a "Strict Ban Notice" dated November 25, 2025, using MeitY's name. The notice alerts the public and stakeholders about misleading content and unauthorized use of the Ministry's name and logos. It specifies actions the public should take and warns of legal repercussions for violations. **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 circulating via social media. * Individuals and 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 issued by MeitY. * Verify information only through official MeitY channels (website and communication channels). * MeitY has not authorized third parties to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers/subsidies without official notification. * **Unauthorized Activities:** * YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centers, websites, and social media pages are misusing official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards, etc.) for commercial purposes. * Unauthorized activities include selling paid courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys and cutoffs, analyzing previous question papers, and creating "official-looking" content. * **Legal Consequences:** * Involvement in creating or circulating fake information will lead to strict legal action. * Violations may incur punishments under: * Indian Penal Code (IPC): Impersonation of a public authority; Cheating and fraud * IT Act, 2000: Online impersonation/cheating * Emblems & Names Act, 1950: Improper use of Government names/emblems * Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Misleading advertisements * IT Rules 2021: Platform Action. * **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** * **Impact:** The general public may be deceived by fake notices and information related to Government recruitments, causing potential financial or personal loss. * **Action Required:** Be cautious, verify information only through official sources, and report suspicious content to MeitY. **Stakeholders (e.g., Students, Job Seekers)** * **Impact:** Stakeholders interested in government jobs or educational opportunities may be misled by unauthorized entities selling courses or materials using government names and logos. * **Action Required:** Verify the legitimacy of any course or material offered under the name of government institutions and refrain from engaging with unauthorized platforms. **Online Platforms (e.g., YouTube, Telegram, Websites)** * **Impact:** Platforms hosting or disseminating fake information related to MeitY or government recruitments face potential legal action, content removal, or account suspension. * **Action Required:** Monitor content, remove misleading information, suspend violating accounts, and cooperate with MeitY in preventing the spread of misinformation.

Key Entities Referenced