In recent days, security agencies in Kashmir have uncovered a growing trend where some local youth exploit social media by posting provocative images and content glorifying separatist figures—most notably Burhan Wani, a slain Hizbul Mujahideen commander—not out of ideological conviction but as a calculated strategy for profit. Investigations following the detention of several individuals revealed that these youth deliberately used inflammatory visuals to attract followers, rapidly expanding their online reach. Once a substantial following was secured, they shifted content toward more neutral themes and then monetized their accounts through lucrative advertising partnerships, often engaging with sponsors across borders. This phenomenon, brought to light around August 3, 2025, has prompted authorities to ramp up surveillance and initiate outreach to families about the risks and implications involved. Officials warn that this blending of political dissent and opportunistic online engagement not only blurs the lines of activism but also exposes youth to financial scams, cyber threats, and legal consequences. The unfolding situation underscores the region’s complex entanglement with the global digital economy, where the lure of online fame and financial reward drives risky behavior amid sensitive security dynamics.