The phrase "scare campaign" refers to a strategy where someone tries to frighten or alarm others in order to influence their beliefs or actions. Full definition
It gives lie to the nonsense and scare campaigns about the «crippling» cost of wind and solar. (reneweconomy.com.au)
Despite an industry scare campaign on costs, the Baird government has received independent advice that shows a container deposit scheme «will be cost effective and efficient». (smh.com.au)
The polls were going the right way, the reality of the carbon price had discredited the apocalyptic scare campaign of the Opposition, and the various real or alleged scandals surrounding the government seemed to be fading. (johnquiggin.com)