French President Emmanuel Macron has launched one of his strongest attacks yet on online abuse, revealing that vicious rumours targeting his wife Brigitte played a direct role in shaping his new push against “fake news” and cyberbullying. Speaking at a major media debate, Macron admitted he and the First Lady felt “helpless” as false claims spread unchecked — some even reaching court. He now wants emergency legal powers to force platforms to act. But will this fight reshape online freedom in France, or ignite an even bigger storm?