Rumor Scanner: Viral claims of US forces in Cox’s Bazar misleading

Fact-checking group Rumor Scanner has debunked viral claims about the presence of US forces in Cox’s Bazar, labeling them as misleading propaganda.

Their investigation found that US personnel have been conducting training programmes in the area for several years under arrangements with the US Embassy in Dhaka. These activities are routine and not recent, making the viral reports inaccurate.

Rumor Scanner also noted a significant rise in false information targeting Bangladesh since last year, particularly from Indian media and social media accounts based in India.

The organization uncovered evidence of a coordinated campaign by both domestic and international groups to spread rumors, misinformation, and disinformation on various issues related to Bangladesh.

In April alone, Rumor Scanner identified 296 instances of misinformation circulating online.