Misinformation Alert: Government Releases Do’s and Don’ts for Netizens
In response to the situation following Operation Sindoor, the Government of India has issued crucial directives aimed at ensuring responsible online behavior among Indian internet users. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has released comprehensive guidelines, while the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has provided specific instructions for OTT platforms.
The government urged citizens to act responsibly online and curb the spread of misinformation. A detailed list outlining what people should and should not do on the internet has been released and disseminated through the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
“A complex online security alert. Always follow cyber safety precautions. Stay vigilant online—avoid falling into traps or misinformation. Stay patriotic, alert, and secure. #DigitalIndia #OperationSindoor,” stated the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in its official post.
Do's:
Share only official advisories, helpline numbers, and verified relief information.
Verify the authenticity of any news through official sources before forwarding it to others.
Report any fake news or misinformation to relevant authorities immediately.
Don'ts:
Do not share information related to the movement of armed forces.
Do not forward unverified information to others.
Stay away from posts that incite violence or promote communal discord.
To report misinformation or rumors, the Ministry has made available a WhatsApp number (8799711259) and an email address ([email protected]).
In addition, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued critical orders to OTT platforms in the wake of Operation Sindoor. The directive mandates all OTT platforms, media streaming services, and intermediary content providers operating in India to immediately suspend streaming of any web series, films, songs, podcasts, or other media content originating from Pakistan.
"In the interest of national security, all OTT platforms, media streaming platforms, and intermediaries operating in India must immediately cease availability of Pakistani web series, films, songs, podcasts, and other streaming media content, whether on a subscription basis or otherwise," the ministry stated in its order.