Celebrities and ‘Influencers’ Losing Thousands of Followers

Twitter Account Purges

In recent weeks, Twitter has begun to tackle fake accounts on their website. Initially, this development was to help retake control of the website. Particularly the manner in which news was distributed. It would seem, however, that the removal of these fake accounts has had an unexpected turn. One which is affecting celebrities and so-called ‘influencers’.

Following the purge, in a report via Metro, it has been revealed that celebrities and ‘influencers’ have been losing thousands of followers. This prompting accusations that these people had purchased them purely to boost their status. It might sound remarkable, but it’s not that hard to believe.

Paul Hollywood

Celebrity chef Paul Hollywood (I had to ask my wife who he was) apparently has completely abandoned Twitter under a cloud of shame when it was revealed many of his followers were fake and in addition, that he had likely paid a company to provide him with followers.

The significant drop in followers for celebrities and influencers has caused the US government to begin investigations into the companies who are believed to ‘sell’ this support. A matter which could see a significant change to how the social media site operates.

Buying followers?

It seems sad. What could you possibly hope to achieve in buying fake supporters for your own Twitter account? Well, the short answer is that falsely promotes your celebrity status. We only saw earlier this month a blogger with an inflated sense of importance get shut down by a hotel owner. In addition, a blogger from China was fined $30,000 for spreading ‘fake news’. It, therefore, seems clear that some changes to the system are necessary.

The short answer is, however, that being popular on social media platforms can mean a significant boost to at least the perceived level of your celebrity status. Something which can make a lot of difference to your ‘price’. Suddenly those supermarket openings can become a lot more lucrative.

Investigations into companies

Twitter has specifically identified Denuvi as a supplier of fake accounts and has pledged to not only shut them down but also any other companies operating on their social media site. Investigations have also begun by several US authorities. How successful they will be is unclear. What is clear, however, is that their actions so far have highlighted just how corrupt the follow system might actually be. A daresay a few people out there are not sleeping comfortably with this investigation underway.

What do you think? Are fake followers a major problem? What should happen to the people who bought these follows? Is the Twitter follow system corrupt? – Let us know in the comments!

Support eTeknix.com

By supporting eTeknix, you help us grow and continue to bring you the latest news, reviews, and competitions. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with the latest technology, share your favourite articles, chat with the team and more. Also check out eTeknix YouTube, where you’ll find our latest video reviews, event coverage and features in 4K!

Check out our Latest Video