Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 - updated 10 Feb 2026
AI / PRIVACY / CYBER RELEVANCE
Directly relevant to GenAI platforms, synthetic media, deepfakes, user complaints and platform controls.
AI: Very HighPrivacy: HighCybersecurity: High
READ FIRST
- Rule 2 definitions
- Rule 3 due diligence
- SGI obligations under Rule 3(3) and SSMI provisions
- Rule 4 where applicable
PURVIEW
Creates the central regulatory framework for intermediaries and digital platforms under the IT Act, including due-diligence requirements, grievance mechanisms, content-related responsibilities, platform governance and the Digital Media Ethics Code. The rules provide the legal environment for handling unlawful information, user complaints, takedown processes and intermediary compliance, while the 2026 updates are especially relevant to synthetic or manipulated content and platform responses to emerging AI-related risks. For privacy, cybersecurity and AI governance, the Rules must be read with the IT Act, CERT-In requirements and applicable data-protection law rather than in isolation.
Classification and legal status. Binding subordinate legislation for intermediaries within scope.