Lemonde.Fr France Exposes Pro-Chinese Fake News Network Linked to CGTN
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- •French agency Viginum exposed a network of pro-Chinese fake news websites linked to CGTN.
- •The operation revealed over 3000 articles, with 2300 repurposed from CGTN, targeting youth in the West.
- •The fake news network employed AI tools for content manipulation and was traced back to Beijing.
On June 4, 2026, Viginum, the French government agency, revealed a network of fake news websites linked to China's state media, CGTN. The operation, named 'Fawn Mianju', uncovered over 3000 articles, with 2300 being repurposed CGTN content, aimed at influencing youth in Western countries and French-speaking Africa. The sites, including 'Actu Méridien' and 'Amigo News', primarily promoted pro-Chinese narratives on topics like AI and environmental initiatives. Investigators found that the websites utilized AI tools for content alteration and were registered in Beijing, indicating substantial resources. The operation highlighted the ongoing threat of state-sponsored disinformation campaigns targeting public opinion in democratic nations.
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