ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The leaked documents, originating from the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI), claim that the group maintained a network of paid social media operatives tasked with promoting pro-Taliban narratives online.
According to the documents, several mid-tier influencers were allegedly paid between $3,500 and $4,000 per month to coordinate messaging across various social media platforms. The leak further claims that more prominent online figures and dedicated social media teams received even higher payments.
The documents also allege that the network operated multiple anonymous and troll accounts while using them to amplify pro-Taliban content and influence online discussions.
In addition, the files claim that operators had access to social media accounts associated with Afghan media outlets and used them to circulate unverified or misleading information.
The authenticity of the leaked documents has not been independently verified, and the Taliban authorities have not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of reporting.
The allegations have renewed debate over the use of organized online influence campaigns in Afghanistan, particularly as the country continues to face severe humanitarian and economic challenges.
