The journalistic use of subject matter that appeals to vulgar tastes WordNet 3.0 & Open English WordNet

In journalism and mass media, sensationalism is a type of editorial tactic. Wikipedia

Type of editorial tactic in mass media Wikidata

The use of sensational subject matter, style or methods, or the sensational subject matter itself; behavior, published materials, or broadcasts that are intentionally controversial, exaggerated, lurid, loud, or attention-grabbing. Especially applied to news media in a pejorative sense that they are reporting in a manner to gain audience or notoriety but at the expense of accuracy and professionalism. Wiktionary

Use of style and subject matter that is intentionally controversial, lurid, or attention-grabbing. Wiktionary (translation)