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

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, issued a notification dated November 26, 2025, warning against the circulation of fake information, specifically regarding a fake notice dated November 25, 2025, concerning the misuse of government recruitment materials for commercial purposes. The notification advises the public and stakeholders to verify information, warns against unauthorized third-party activities, and states that legal action will be taken against those involved in creating or circulating fake information. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Notice Alert:** A fake notice dated November 25, 2025, titled "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities," is being circulated. * **Prohibited Activities:** * Unauthorized use of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content on platforms like YouTube, Telegram, websites, and social media for commercial or promotional purposes. * Selling paid courses and batches using official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards, etc.) * Promotion of study materials and mock tests with unofficial keys and cutoffs. * Analysis of previous question papers. * Publishing "official-looking" content or advertisements. * **Verification and Caution:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages 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 provide job offers without official notification. * **Legal Consequences:** * Violators face strict legal action under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * **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. * **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** * **Impact** * Need to exercise caution and verify information from MeitY to avoid being misled by fake information. * **Action Required** * Verify information through the official MeitY website (https://www.meity.gov.in) and communication channels. * Refrain from believing or forwarding unverified messages. * Report suspicious content to webmaster@meity.gov.in. **Individuals and Online Platforms Involved in Creating or Circulating Fake Information Impact** * **Impact** * Subject to strict legal action. * **Action Required** * Cease all unauthorized activities involving the misuse of government recruitment materials and dissemination of fake information. **Online Platforms (YouTube, Telegram, Websites, Social Media) Impact** * **Impact** * Increased scrutiny and potential penalties for hosting or promoting misleading content. * **Action Required** * Monitor content for unauthorized use of government recruitment materials. * Remove misleading content. * Be prepared for account suspension or blocking of channels.

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