Unknown Hacker Targets Instagram Accounts of Controversial Influencers Promoting Harmful Content

 

 

By ANN News Desk | July 5, 2025 | Srinagar

In a surprising digital crackdown, an unidentified hacker has reportedly gained access to multiple Instagram accounts belonging to self-styled social media influencers known for posting vulgar, insensitive, and harmful content. The targets appear to be those who frequently uploaded videos with inappropriate language, objectionable themes, and sensationalism — often aimed at gaining quick popularity, particularly among teenagers and school-going children.

According to early reports, over two dozen such accounts were affected, most of which had built large followings by promoting content that experts say was damaging the moral fabric of society.

A professor from Kashmir University, speaking to ANN News, expressed deep concern over the rising influence of such online personalities.

“I am shocked at how blindly people follow these so-called influencers. Most of their content is filled with profanity, disrespectful behavior, and often promotes toxic trends. It’s alarming to see our youth idolize such figures,” he said.

 

“When you normalize abusive language, disrespect to parents or teachers, or glorify crime and indecency on social media — it doesn’t remain ‘just content.’ It starts influencing behavior. Teenagers start imitating what they see.”

 

One university student, who regularly posts educational videos on Instagram, shared his frustration:

“I work hard to create quality content on science and general knowledge. But I hardly get a few hundred views. Meanwhile, someone using abusive language, mocking people, or dancing inappropriately gets a million views overnight. It’s heartbreaking.”

This digital inequality — where good, informative content gets buried under waves of viral nonsense — has been a growing complaint among genuine content creators.

 

Experts argue that such trends are not just limited to Kashmir but are a global phenomenon. However, in regions like Kashmir where young minds are already navigating complex socio-political realities, exposure to harmful online content can have long-term psychological and social consequences.

Cyber experts are urging Instagram and other platforms to take stronger steps in filtering content that violates community standards.

“We need an algorithm that promotes learning, creativity, and respect — not vulgarity and shock value,” said a Srinagar-based cybersecurity analyst.

While the identity and motive of the hacker remain unknown, this incident has sparked debate about accountability on social media and the urgent need to promote responsible digital behavior.

As of now, Instagram has not issued any formal statement on the hacking incident.

 

Examples of Harmful Trends Previously Criticized:
• Challenges that promote dangerous stunts or abuse (e.g., slapping strangers, mocking elders).
• Use of explicit language in dance or lip-sync videos.
• “Roast” videos filled with derogatory remarks targeting individuals for likes and shares.

 

 

Whether the hacking was an act of digital vigilantism or a cybercrime, it has exposed a serious issue: the glorification of unhealthy content on platforms widely accessed by youth. Authorities and society at large now face a crucial question — should we wait for anonymous hackers to step in, or is it time for communities, educators, and tech companies to work together in cleaning up the digital space?