Netizens are wondering if becoming an influencer these days really that simple?
Shaniena Natasya, an influencer and social media businesswoman, recently acknowledged that she paid RM20,000 to purchase 500,000 Instagram followers.
Many were shocked to learn this, especially considering that she had organically acquired 375,000 followers on her account.
So why, inorganically buy them now?
Shaniena clarified that she bought followers in order to increase her online visibility because certain businesses take influencers' follower counts into account when ranking them.
She also made it clear that the choice had to do with her job and that she would prefer to be honest than to lead a lie.
Online users applauded her candor, with many speculating that other influencers might similarly purchase followers but decide to say nothing.