Amid escalating national tensions following Operation Sindoor, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued an urgent cyber safety advisory to Indian internet users. The advisory, shared via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasizes the importance of responsible digital conduct, especially during sensitive military operations, and urges the public to refrain from circulating unverified or provocative content online.
Accompanying this alert, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) also directed OTT platforms and digital content providers to immediately cease the availability of media content originating from Pakistan, citing national security concerns.
These dual advisories represent a broader governmental effort to curb misinformation, maintain internal stability, and ensure secure online behaviour at a time of heightened public sentiment and geopolitical tension.
MeitY’s Cyber Safety ‘Dos and Don’ts’ for Internet Users
In its advisory, MeitY called on citizens to exercise heightened vigilance in their online activity, encouraging fact-checking, responsible sharing, and digital patriotism. The ministry stressed the significance of avoiding misinformation and hostile propaganda, especially content aimed at provoking unrest or undermining national morale.
Key Do’s:
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Share only official advisories, verified helpline numbers, and authentic updates.
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Cross-verify news with official sources before sharing.
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Immediately report fake or misleading content.
Key Don’ts:
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Do not share or speculate on troop movements or military operations.
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Avoid forwarding unverified or sensational information.
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Refrain from posting content that may incite communal disharmony or violence.
The ministry has also set up dedicated channels to report misinformation, including a WhatsApp helpline (8799711259) and an official email address (socialmedia@pib.gov.in).
“Be patriotic, stay vigilant, stay safe,” MeitY posted with the hashtags #DigitalIndia and #OperationSindoor.
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OTT Platforms Ordered to Remove Pakistan-Origin Content
Simultaneously, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a stern directive to all OTT platforms, digital intermediaries, and media streaming services operating in India. The advisory mandates the removal of all Pakistani-origin media content, including web series, films, songs, podcasts, and shows, whether free-to-access or subscription-based.
“In the interest of national security, all OTT platforms and intermediaries operating in India are advised to discontinue the availability of any media content of Pakistani origin with immediate effect,” the ministry stated.
This move, while symbolic of India’s firm stance amid conflict escalation, also seeks to limit foreign media influence and curtail soft-power propaganda from adversarial sources. The ministry has not specified penalties for non-compliance, but industry experts anticipate tighter enforcement mechanisms and regulatory scrutiny in the days ahead.
Digital Patriotism and the Road Ahead
These advisories come at a time when cybersecurity, information warfare, and media narratives play an increasingly strategic role in national defence. Government sources suggest that misinformation campaigns and hostile digital content can erode public trust, trigger unrest, or even assist hostile intelligence agencies during times of conflict.
The Centre’s appeal is clear: India’s digital users must become active participants in preserving national integrity by avoiding rumor-mongering, flagging suspicious content, and consuming information responsibly.
As Operation Sindoor continues to unfold, government agencies are expected to increase coordination with social media platforms, digital publishers, and cybersecurity teams to monitor online ecosystems and counter digital threats in real time.