**Executive Summary**
The Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a notification regarding the circulation of fake information and the misuse of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content for commercial purposes. This notification, dated November 26, 2025, warns the public against believing unverified information and outlines potential legal action against violators. It also highlights the action required of online platforms to deal with the issue.
**Key Points / Main Content**
* **Fake Information Circulation:**
* 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" is circulating on social media.
* The ministry deems the use of its name, logo, and authority to circulate misleading information as illegal.
* **Public Advisory:**
* The public is advised not to believe or forward unverified messages claiming to be issued by MeitY.
* All information should be verified through the official MeitY website and communication channels.
* MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees or provide services without official notification.
* **Unauthorized Commercial Use of Government Recruitment Materials:**
* YouTube channels, Telegram groups, coaching centers, websites, and social media pages are prohibited from using government recruitment names, emblems, or exam content for commercial or promotional activities.
* Examples of misuse include selling courses, promoting study materials, publishing unofficial keys, and analyzing previous question papers.
* **Penalties for Violation:**
* Violators will face strict legal action under various laws:
* Indian Penal Code (IPC): Section 170 (Impersonation) and 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):**
* Online platforms are expected to take actions such as:
* Permanent blocking of YouTube/Telegram channels.
* Removal of misleading content.
* Suspension of accounts involved.
**Impact Analysis**
**Impact: General Public/Stakeholders**
* **Impact:** The general public is at risk of being misled by fake information and unauthorized services offered in the name of MeitY.
* **Action Required:** Verify information through official channels, remain cautious, and report suspicious content.
**Impact: Online Platforms (YouTube, Telegram, Websites, Social Media)**
* **Impact:** Online platforms are responsible for policing their content and preventing the spread of misleading information and unauthorized use of government materials.
* **Action Required:** Block channels, remove misleading content, and suspend accounts involved in the violation of the above regulations.
**Impact: Individuals/Organizations Using Government Materials Commercially**
* **Impact:** Individuals and organizations are subject to legal penalties for the misuse of government recruitment names, logos, and exam content.
* **Action Required:** Cease all unauthorized commercial use of government materials to avoid legal action.
Key Entities Referenced
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY): The primary entity issuing the notification regarding the circulation of fake information.
Information Technology Act, 2000: Law under which the circulation of misleading information constitutes a serious offense.
Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names, Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities: The subject of the fake notice that is being circulated.
IT Rules 2021: Rules under which platform action (permanent blocking, removal of content, suspension of accounts) will be taken against violations.
Indian Penal Code (IPC): Law under which impersonation of a public authority and cheating/fraud are punishable offenses.
Government of India
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY)
MeitY Website Cell
New Delhi-110003
Dated: 26.11.2025
NOTIFICATION
Subject: Circulation of Fake Information in the Name of the Ministry of Electronics &
Information Technology
It has come to the notice of the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY)
that fake Notice having subject Strict Ban on Using Government Recruitment Names,
Logos, and Exam Content for Selling Courses or Promotional Activities dated 25
November, 2025 (Fake Notice attached at page no. 2) is being circulated through social
media (WhatsApp) which has no significance. Certain individuals and/or online platforms are
circulating misleading and unauthorized information by falsely using the name, logo, and
authority of Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY). Such actions are
illegal and constitute a serious offense under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and other
applicable laws.
The general public and stakeholders are hereby advised:
1. Do not believe or forward any unverified messages, advertisements, or
communications claiming to be issued by MeitY.
2. Always verify information only through the official website and communication
channels of the Ministry.
3. MeitY has not authorized any third party to collect fees, personal data, or provide
job offers, subsidies, grants, or digital services without official notification.
4. Any person found involved in the creation or circulation of fake information will face
strict legal action.
For any clarification or to report suspicious content, please contact at email
webmaster@meity.gov.in or Official Website link https://www.meity.gov.in
The Ministry urges all citizens to remain cautious and help in preventing the spread of
misinformation in cyberspace.
Tulika Pandey (Ms)
Scientist 'G' & Group Coordinator
(HRD Division, RajBhasha Section, Gender budgeting, NIELIT & ERNET)
Chief Information Officer & Web Master
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India
Electronics Niketan, 6 CGO Complex New Delhi - 110 003
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