324 false information cases detected in June: CGS

The Center for Governance Studies (CGS) has detected 324 verified cases of false and misleading information circulating in Bangladesh during June 2025, signaling a sharp increase in the spread of fake news.

According to a press release issued on Wednesday, out of the total cases, 253 involved politically motivated misinformation, reflecting clear attempts to influence public opinion amid political uncertainty.

Entertainment-related falsehoods accounted for 24 cases, followed by religious misinformation (19), online hoaxes (18), diplomatic (5), economic (4), and environmental (1) false information.

The report revealed that political figures, including both domestic and international leaders, were the main targets, with 124 incidents directed at them. Other groups affected included law enforcement agencies (48), celebrities (25), religious entities (16), political parties (13), government institutions (16), interim government officials (6), private organizations (2), and religion-focused individuals (1).

Seventy-three incidents were classified as unspecified, where misinformation was not aimed at any particular individual but intended to sow general confusion.

Social media remains the primary platform for spreading false information, with 316 incidents traced to Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Threads, and X (formerly Twitter). Eight cases involved online news portals.

CGS called on authorities and social media companies to take immediate measures to combat misinformation and safeguard public trust.