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, specifically a false 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 notification warns the public and stakeholders against believing or forwarding unverified information and clarifies MeitY's official communication channels. Any individual involved in the creation or circulation of fake information will face strict legal action. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Information Alert:** * 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 through social media. * This notice and other unauthorized information falsely using MeitY's name and logo are misleading and illegal. * **Advisory to the Public and Stakeholders:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages, advertisements, or communications claiming to be issued by MeitY. * Verify information only through the official MeitY website and communication channels. * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees or data, or provide job offers/grants without official notification. * **Unauthorized Activities & Penalties:** * It is prohibited to use government recruitment names, logos, and exam content for commercial purposes, including selling courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys/cutoffs, and creating "official-looking" content. * Violators will face strict legal action under various laws, including: * 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. * IT Act, 2000: * Section 66D (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 * **Reporting and Clarification:** * For clarifications or to report suspicious content, contact webmaster@meity.gov.in or visit https://www.meity.gov.in. **Impact Analysis** **General Public & Stakeholders** * **Impact:** Increased awareness about fake information and how to verify official communications from MeitY. * **Action Required:** Be cautious of unverified information, verify sources through official channels, and report suspicious content. **Online Platforms (e.g., YouTube, Telegram, Websites)** * **Impact:** The notice explicitly bans the use of Government recruitment names, logos, and exam content. * **Action Required:** Monitor content, remove misleading information, and potentially face blocking or account suspension. **Individuals & Coaching Centers** * **Impact:** The notice impacts individuals and coaching centers who are circulating misleading and unauthorized information. * **Action Required:** Stop using Government names and logos, and if violating these rules, face strict legal action.

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