As we see there are 2 meanings of “so-called” that can be confused or misinterpreted, of which one implies falsehood and the other doesn’t.
One. to show that something or someone is commonly designated by the name or term specified.
“Western Countries belonging to the so-called Paris club”
Two. used to express one’s view that such a name or term is inappropriate.
“she could trust him more than any of her so-called friends”
Since so-called I feel is very often used to suggest that a title for something describes a meaning that isn’t necessarily accurate, what’s another term that simply expresses that something is titled something without judgment of the title?
I agree, even if you use another word like alleged, the word is in the sentence strictly to draw attention to the fact that the following information is of questionable validity, so by nature casts suspicion and distrust, even if the intent for the distrust is protective of the audience in a positive fashion.