The phrase "cynical ploy" refers to a dishonest or manipulative strategy that someone uses with a doubtful or skeptical attitude, usually to deceive or gain an advantage. Full definition
Anyway, The Death Star DLC move is (IMO) one of the most cynical ploys by a games company in a while; a depressing reminder that games company's have very little respect for the audience they cater for these days. (gameondaily.com)
This cynical ploy follows a series of recent outrages: free drugs for seniors, a staged increase in the minimum wage to $ 15 an... (hilltimes.com)
Perhaps, as some argue, Trump channels the anxieties of a class whose economic and social standing is in demonstrable decline as a cynical ploy to win popularity — this is a man who once called the poor «morons» — while winking at the «establishment,» who can take comfort in knowing that this reality - television caricature of themselves actually shares their political opportunism, if not their economic values. (firstthings.com)