Deceptive narratives presented as authentic user-generated content on the Instagram platform represent a growing area of concern. These fabricated accounts, often disseminated through the “Stories” feature, aim to mislead viewers regarding events, affiliations, or products. An example might involve a seemingly candid endorsement of a weight-loss product by an individual who has, in reality, been compensated for the promotion without proper disclosure.
The proliferation of these misleading narratives can erode trust in the platform, impacting both users and legitimate businesses. Historically, similar tactics have been employed across various media to influence public opinion or drive sales. On Instagram, the ephemeral nature of the “Stories” format can exacerbate the problem, making it difficult to track and verify the veracity of such content. The benefits derived by those creating these narratives range from financial gain to amplified social influence, often at the expense of unsuspecting viewers.
