20 Facebook Pages Push Cycling Hoaxes to 200,000 Followers Across 5 Languages
Updated
Updated · Escape Collective · Jun 4
20 Facebook Pages Push Cycling Hoaxes to 200,000 Followers Across 5 Languages
2 articles · Updated · Escape Collective · Jun 4
Summary
An investigation identified 20 Facebook “news” pages spreading false stories about pro cyclists, with the network’s combined following nearing 200,000 across five languages.
Hundreds of articles a day appear to be generated through a broader AI-driven content operation that extends beyond cycling and funnels traffic to two obscure websites.
Cycling Squad, one page with 10,000 followers, led to the wider network; its posts mimic legitimate race coverage with emotional, tabloid-style headlines designed to drive clicks and engagement.
The pages also share AI-generated profile images and bogus contact details, often listing random U.S. hotel addresses and phone numbers to appear credible.