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 26.11.2025, addresses the circulation of fake information, specifically a fake notice dated 25.11.2025, regarding a "Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities." The Ministry advises the public and stakeholders to be cautious and outlines actions considered illegal, highlighting potential legal consequences. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Notice Alert:** A fake notice dated 25 November, 2025, is being circulated on social media, falsely using MeitY's name and authority. This notice refers to a strict ban on using government recruitment related information for commercial purposes. * **General Public Advisory:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages claiming to be from MeitY. * Verify information only through the official MeitY website and communication channels. * MeitY has not authorized third parties to collect fees, data, or provide services without official notification. * **Illegal Activities:** The following activities, falsely using government recruitment related information for commercial purposes, are prohibited: * Selling paid courses and batches * Promoting study materials and mock tests * Publishing unofficial keys and cutoffs * Analyzing previous question papers * Using "official-looking" content or advertisements * **Legal Consequences:** * Creation or circulation of fake information will face strict legal action under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and other applicable laws. * Violators face penalties under various acts including: * Indian Penal Code (IPC) * IT Act, 2000 * Emblems & Names Act, 1950 * Consumer Protection Act, 2019 * **Platform Action:** Under IT Rules 2021, platforms will take action against violations including: * Permanent blocking of YouTube/Telegram channels * Removal of misleading content * Suspension of involved accounts **Impact Analysis** **General Public and Stakeholders** * **Impact:** Potential exposure to misinformation and fraudulent schemes. * **Action Required:** Exercise caution, verify information through official channels, and report suspicious content to webmaster@meity.gov.in or through the official website: https://www.meity.gov.in **Individuals and Online Platforms** * **Impact:** Potential legal action for creating or circulating fake information or misuse of government recruitment information. * **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized activities and ensure compliance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, and other relevant laws. **Government Recruitment Boards** * **Impact:** Their official names, logos, and exam content are being misused for commercial purposes, potentially misleading candidates. * **Action Required:** Monitor online platforms for misuse of their information and report violations to MeitY. **Online Platforms (YouTube, Telegram, Websites, Social Media Pages)** * **Impact:** Responsible for hosting and facilitating the spread of fake information and unauthorized commercial activities. * **Action Required:** Implement measures to detect and remove misleading content, block channels/groups involved in illegal activities, and suspend associated accounts in accordance with IT Rules 2021.

Key Entities Referenced