There has been an alarming rise in fake ads and news stories appearing online and on social media platforms like Meta and X, which claim to be from, or endorsed by, CBC or CBC-employees. If you see an endorsement from CBC, it is fake.
These ads often link to websites sharing disinformation, promoting financial scams, or selling products. CBC is committed to fighting disinformation, which deliberately misleads the public and puts at risk their trust in legitimate media outlets.
This is an increasingly difficult task, however, hindered by the rise in AI generated misinformation and the prevalence of fake ads found on social media platforms. Here’s how you can help.
When you see a fake ad on a website or social platform, please share your concerns with the Competition Bureau of Canada via their complaint form. The Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that advocates for and protects Canadian consumers, including by ensuring truth in advertising.
It is also important to flag the ad to the platform
Reporting an ad on Meta Platforms and X:
To report an ad on Facebook: Look for the three dots ( … ) in the top right hand corner of the ad, then select “Report ad”.
Report an ad on X:
To report an ad on X: Look for the three dots ( ... ) in the top right hand corner of the ad then select “Report ad”.