The phrase "cynical attempt" refers to a dishonest or insincere effort to do something, often with the intention of gaining an unfair advantage or tricking others. Full definition
These sorts of cynical attempts by governments everywhere to narrow the definition of torture always end up with people getting damaged. (freedomfromtorture.org)
This decision is a painful reminder that a court may not look favorably on cynical attempts to end - run a protective order. (thecomplexlitigator.com)
Fight for the Future characterized AT&T's move a «cynical attempt at misinformation» and said «zero real Net neutrality supporters are fooled» by the open letter. (ecommercetimes.com)