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, concerning a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities." The notification advises the public and stakeholders to remain cautious and provides guidelines to avoid being misled by unverified information. The ministry also provides contact information to report suspicious activity. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Notice Addressed:** * A fake notice with the subject "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities" (dated 25 November 2025) is being circulated via social media. * This fake notice claims to forbid the use of official recruitment content for commercial or promotional activities on platforms such as YouTube, Telegram, Coaching Centres, and Social Media. * **Advisory to the Public and Stakeholders:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages, advertisements, or communications claiming to be issued by MeitY. * Always verify information on the official MeitY website and communication channels. * MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification. * Individuals involved in creating or circulating fake information will face strict legal action. * **Illegal Activities:** * Using official exam names and content for selling courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys/cutoffs, analyzing previous papers, and creating official-looking content/ads are unauthorised, misleading, and illegal. * **Legal Consequences:** * Violation of these rules can lead to legal action under various laws, including: * Indian Penal Code (IPC): Section 170 (impersonation), Section 420 (cheating and fraud). * IT Act, 2000: Section 66D (online impersonation/cheating). * Emblems & Names Act, 1950 (improper use of government names/emblems). * Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (misleading advertisements). * Platform Action (IT Rules 2021): Blocking channels, removal of content, suspension of accounts. **Impact Analysis** **General Public** * **Impact:** The general public is at risk of being misled by fake information and scams related to government recruitments and services. * **Action Required:** Exercise caution, verify information through official channels, and report suspicious content. **Stakeholders (e.g., Job Seekers, Students)** * **Impact:** Stakeholders interested in government jobs or educational resources may be misled by fraudulent courses, materials, or announcements, potentially leading to financial loss or wasted time. * **Action Required:** Verify all information related to government recruitments and educational resources through the official MeitY website or official government channels. **Online Platforms (e.g., Social Media, Websites)** * **Impact:** Online platforms may be used to spread misinformation and fraudulent activities. They are subject to potential legal and regulatory action. * **Action Required:** Monitor and remove misleading content related to MeitY or government recruitment, and cooperate with investigations. **Individuals or Entities Misusing Government Information** * **Impact:** Individuals or entities found misusing government names, logos, or exam content will face legal consequences. * **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized activities and prepare for potential legal action.

Key Entities Referenced