From Minahil Malik to Kanwal Aftab: Are Pakistani influencer scandals publicity stunts or digital invasions?

synopsis

In recent weeks, Pakistan’s social media landscape has been shaken by a string of privacy breaches targeting some of the country’s most prominent influencers. With private videos of TikTok stars like Minahil Malik, Imsha Rehman, Mathira Khan, and now Kanwal Aftab going viral, questions are being raised: Are these incidents calculated publicity stunts, or do they reflect a dangerous digital invasion of privacy?

A Timeline of Scandals

The controversy began with TikTok sensation Minahil Malik, whose explicit videos were widely shared online, prompting a storm of backlash and debate. Soon after, Imsha Rehman, another social media personality, became the target of a similar incident, leading her to deactivate her social media accounts.

Mathira Khan, a popular TV host and influencer, also found herself embroiled in the scandal when private content allegedly featuring her surfaced online. Khan fiercely condemned the misuse of her images, calling out those behind the circulation of doctored content and fake narratives.

Kanwal Aftab, one of Pakistan's most-followed influencers with over four million Instagram followers, has reportedly become the latest victim. Alleged private videos and images of Aftab in compromising situations have circulated widely, sparking intense public scrutiny. Known for her TikTok stardom and modeling career, Aftab has yet to issue a statement addressing the allegations.

More recently, Maryam Faisal, a prominent Pakistani Tiktoker, became the fifth Pakistani influencer to fall victim to a private video leak. A private video reportedly featuring her emerged online last month, sparking intense debate and speculation. The video, which seems to depict a woman resembling her in an intimate moment with a partner, had triggered a flurry of reactions across social media. However, the influencer has yet to publicly address or verify the authenticity of the video.

Publicity Stunt or Digital Invasion?

The timing and frequency of these incidents have led to speculation about their true nature. Some observers argue that these leaks are an orchestrated digital invasion—perhaps by hackers or malicious individuals targeting influencers to tarnish their reputations or extort them. In a country where cybercrime laws remain under-enforced, influencers and celebrities are particularly vulnerable to such attacks.

On the other hand, skeptics question whether some of these scandals might be staged as publicity stunts. Controversy often brings attention, and in the world of social media, attention can translate into increased followers, engagement, and monetization opportunities. The recurring nature of these incidents, coupled with their focus on high-profile influencers, has led some to wonder if these leaks are a calculated strategy to maintain relevance or regain visibility.

The Fallout for Influencers

Regardless of the intent, the fallout from these leaks has been significant. For the influencers involved, the public exposure of their private lives has brought both sympathy and criticism. While many fans have expressed support and condemned the breaches of privacy, others have engaged in victim-blaming, accusing the influencers of lacking morals or seeking attention.

Mathira Khan was one of the few who publicly addressed the issue, calling out the online harassment and condemning the violation of her privacy. “People are misusing my name and my photoshoot pictures and adding fake stuff in. Please have shame!” she said in a statement, urging for greater respect for personal boundaries.

Kanwal Aftab’s case has drawn particular attention due to her massive influence and relatability. Married to fellow TikTok star Zulqarnain Sikandar and a new mother, Aftab’s public image has been built on her journey from social media stardom to a successful personal life. The recent allegations not only threaten her reputation but also highlight the vulnerabilities of public figures in the digital age.

The string of scandals has left Pakistan’s social media community grappling with an uncomfortable question: Are these leaks the result of a calculated campaign to invade privacy, or are they orchestrated stunts to boost fame and engagement?

Here's a look at some of the reactions to the ongoing Pakistan influencers scandal