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 misleading and unauthorized 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 notification warns the public against believing or forwarding unverified messages and clarifies that unauthorized use of MeitY's name and resources will face strict legal action. It is effective immediately. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Information Alert:** * A fake notice dated November 25, 2025, concerning a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities," is being circulated via social media. * Certain entities are falsely using MeitY's name, logo, and authority to spread misleading information. * **Public Advisory:** * 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, personal data, or provide job offers/subsidies without official notification. * **Legal Consequences:** * Creating or circulating fake information will result in strict legal action under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other applicable laws. * Violations of rules regarding the use of Government names, logos, and exam content will face strict legal action. * **Prohibited Activities:** * Unauthorized use of names, emblems, or examination content (notifications, question papers, answer keys, cutoff data, etc.) from Government Recruitment Boards for commercial purposes. * Selling paid courses and batches using official exam names (SSC, RRB, UPSC, IBPS, Defence, State Boards, etc.). * Publishing unofficial keys and cutoffs or promoting "official-looking" content. * **Penalties for Violations:** * Indian Penal Code (IPC): Impersonation (Section 170) and Cheating/Fraud (Section 420) leading to imprisonment and fines. * IT Act, 2000: Online impersonation/cheating (Section 66D) leading to imprisonment and fines. * Emblems & Names Act, 1950: Improper use of Government names/emblems leads to fines and/or imprisonment. * Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Misleading advertisements can result in fines and 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** * **Impact** * Awareness of potential misinformation and scams related to government jobs and services. * **Action Required** * Exercise caution and verify all information through official MeitY channels before believing or sharing it. **Stakeholders (e.g., educators, social media users, platform providers)** * **Impact** * Need to ensure their platforms and content are not spreading misleading or unauthorized information. * **Action Required** * Review content and practices to ensure compliance with MeitY guidelines and legal requirements. **MeitY Website Cell** * **Impact** * Responsibility for addressing clarifications and reporting suspicious content. * **Action Required** * Respond to inquiries and take action based on reports received via webmaster@meity.gov.in and the official website.

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