In a deeply alarming development, Blitz investigations have uncovered the existence of multiple fake news channels operating from Bangladesh that are illegally using the names, branding, and perceived authority of some of the world’s most prominent international media organizations – namely Fox News, CNN, and Al Jazeera. These entities have no legal, editorial, or institutional affiliation with the original networks, yet they continue to function openly across digital platforms, misleading audiences and exploiting public trust.

Such activities constitute a serious violation of international media norms, trademark protections, and ethical journalism standards, while posing grave risks to the credibility of global news ecosystems.

In our opinion, this is a dangerous imposture in the digital media space.

Fake ‘Fox News BD’: Misusing a global brand

One of the most striking examples identified by Blitz is a channel calling itself “Fox News BD”. Operating through a dedicated website and multiple social media accounts – particularly on Facebook – this entity presents itself in a manner designed to mimic the internationally recognized Fox News, a US-based cable news network founded in 1996 and headquartered in New York City.

The real Fox News is owned by Fox Corporation and operates under strict editorial, legal, and regulatory frameworks within the United States. It maintains a global reputation – controversial at times, but institutionally established and legally accountable.

By contrast, “Fox News BD” has no known authorization, license, or partnership with Fox Corporation. Yet it continues to use the Fox News name to lend false legitimacy to its content and operations.

Fake CNN channels: A long-running deception

Blitz investigators have also identified multiple fake channels operating under the CNN brand, including:

• “CNN Bangladesh”, operating on Facebook and YouTube
• A YouTube channel launched as early as September 23, 2013
• Another Facebook-based entity named “CNN Bangla TV”

The original CNN (Cable News Network) was founded in 1980 by Ted Turner and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. It was the world’s first 24-hour television news channel and remains one of the most influential global news organizations, with carefully regulated international bureaus and licensing arrangements.

None of the Bangladesh-based entities using the CNN name appear to have any legitimate affiliation with CNN International or its parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery.

Fake ‘Al Jazeera Bangla’: Exploiting global credibility

Adding to the concern is the discovery of a Facebook page operating under the name “Al Jazeera Bangla”. Al Jazeera is a Qatar-based international broadcaster founded in 1996, with a vast global presence and clearly defined language services and digital platforms.

There is no officially recognized “Al Jazeera Bangla” service operating from Bangladesh. The use of the Al Jazeera name in this manner raises serious questions about intellectual property theft, audience manipulation, and the deliberate misuse of international credibility.

Makeshift studios and false representation

According to information gathered by Blitz, these fake channels often operate from makeshift studios and claim to have appointed hundreds of so-called correspondents across Bangladesh. In many cases, individuals posing as representatives of Fox News or CNN approach local communities, officials, and event organizers under false pretenses, exploiting the global reputation of these brands for access, influence, or personal gain.

This practice not only deceives the public but also undermines genuine journalism and places unsuspecting citizens at risk of manipulation.

Why this is dangerous

The operation of fake international news channels is not a harmless imitation. It carries far-reaching consequences:

• Reputational damage to Fox News, CNN, and Al Jazeera when false or inflammatory content is attributed to them
• Public misinformation, especially in politically sensitive or communal contexts
• Erosion of trust in both local and international media
• Potential use of such platforms for propaganda, disinformation, or extortion

In a digital age already plagued by fake news, such impersonation further poisons the information environment.

The need for urgent action

The continued operation of these fake outlets raises pressing questions for Bangladesh’s regulatory authorities, cybercrime units, and social media platforms. There is an urgent need for:

• Proper investigation into those running these channels
• Cooperation with international media organizations whose brands are being misused
• Enforcement of trademark, cyber, and media laws
• Swift action by Facebook, YouTube, and other platforms to remove impersonating accounts

The misuse of globally respected media brands like Fox News, CNN, and Al Jazeera from within Bangladesh is a serious breach of trust and a threat to responsible journalism. If left unchecked, such practices risk turning the country into a hub for digital impersonation and media fraud—damaging not only international reputations but also Bangladesh’s own standing in the global information space.

Blitz will continue to investigate and expose such deceptive operations in the public interest.

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The post Fake ‘Fox News’, ‘CNN’ and ‘Al Jazeera’ illegally operating from Bangladesh appeared first on BLiTZ.

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Source: Weekly Blitz :: Writings