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

**Executive Summary** This document is a notification from the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, dated November 26, 2025, warning against the circulation of fake information using MeitY's name, logo, and authority. It specifically addresses a fake notice dated November 25, 2025, banning the use of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content for commercial purposes. The notice advises the general public and stakeholders to verify information through official channels and warns of strict legal action against those involved in creating or spreading misinformation. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Fake Notice:** A fake notice dated November 25, 2025, concerning a strict ban on using government recruitment names and exam content for commercial activities, is circulating via social media. * **Misinformation:** Individuals and online platforms are falsely using MeitY's name, logo, and authority to spread misleading and unauthorized information. * **Prohibited Activities:** Unauthorised entities are using names, emblems, or examination content from Government Recruitment Boards on YouTube, Telegram and social media to: * Sell paid courses and batches. * Promote study materials and mock tests. * Publish unofficial keys and cutoffs. * Analyse previous question papers. * Create "Official-looking" content or advertisements. * **Advisory for the Public and Stakeholders:** * Do not believe or forward unverified messages. * Verify information through official MeitY channels. * MeitY has not authorized any third parties to collect fees, personal data, or provide job offers without official notification. * **Legal Consequences:** Creating or circulating fake information will result in strict legal action. * **Reporting:** Suspicious content can be reported via email to webmaster@meity.gov.in or through the official website. * **Penalties:** Violators will face penalties under the: * Indian Penal Code (IPC): * Section 170: Impersonation of a public authority (imprisonment up to 2 years + fine). * Section 420: Cheating and fraud (imprisonment up to 7 years + fine). * IT Act, 2000: * Section 66D: Online impersonation/cheating (imprisonment up to 3 years + fine up to ₹1,00,000). * 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:** * **Impact:** The public may be misled by fake notices and false information, potentially leading to financial loss or incorrect decisions. * **Action Required:** Verify information through official sources before believing or forwarding it. **Stakeholders (e.g., Educational Institutions, Coaching Centers):** * **Impact:** These entities could be implicated in illegal activities if they participate in creating or spreading misinformation. * **Action Required:** Ensure compliance with MeitY regulations and avoid using government names, logos, and exam content for commercial activities without authorization. **Social Media Platforms (e.g., WhatsApp, YouTube, Telegram):** * **Impact:** Platforms could face legal action if they fail to prevent the spread of misinformation. * **Action Required:** Implement measures to identify and remove fake content and suspend accounts involved in spreading misinformation.

Key Entities Referenced