Buying Followers/Likes on Social Media Platforms

Yes, it's possible to buy followers on social media, but is it allowed in Islam? Buying followers/likes usually means paying for fake or inactive accounts to make your numbers look higher. According to Islam, this is not allowed because of the following reasons: 1⃣. Deception → It creates a false impression of popularity, influence, or credibility. If others are misled into thinking you are more influential than you really are, this is a form of tadlis (deceptive marketing), which is prohibited. Asmā' bint Abi Bakr (may Allāh be pleased with them) narrated that a woman who had a co-wife asked the Prophet ﷺ: “Is it a sin if she boasts about her husband’s attention or status beyond what he actually gives her?” In other words, she claimed in front of her co-wife that her husband gave her more favour than he really did, to make the other woman upset. The Prophet ﷺ said to her: “One who pretends to have what was not given to them is like wearing garments of falsehood.” [Bukhāri & Muslim] 2⃣. Lying / False Representation → The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever deceives us is not one of us.” (Muslim) 3⃣. Wasting Wealth → Paying for something that has little to no real benefit (fake engagement that doesn’t actually help you reach people) is wasteful spending, which Islam prohibits. Yes, buying followers may give a short-term boost in numbers, but long-term success usually comes from authentic engagement 4⃣. Violating Terms of Service → Buying followers/likes is against the terms of service of these platforms. They consider it a form of manipulation, and if detected, it can lead to: -> Removal of fake subscribers/followers. -> Suppression of your content in recommendations. -> Account suspension or permanent ban in serious cases. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Muslims [must] honour their agreements." [Reported by Abū Dāwūd; authenticated by Sheikh Albāni raḥimahullāh] Keep in mind, people can often tell when an account has “fake” followers, which can damage credibility. ✅ Alternatives: Invest in real growth through consistent, high-quality content, engaging with your audience authentically, ads, collaborations, SEO/hashtags, or content strategies — all of which are allowed and effective. #tarbiyah@masjidsahabah