An application designed to artificially inflate the view count of online content, most commonly video streams or videos on platforms like YouTube or Twitch, achieves this through automated processes that simulate legitimate viewers. These applications typically utilize bots or scripts to repeatedly access and “watch” the content, thus artificially boosting the number displayed to the public. This manufactured popularity is intended to deceive viewers and potentially manipulate platform algorithms.
The purpose of artificially increasing view counts varies, but it generally centers on perceived credibility and monetization. A higher view count can create the illusion of popularity, attracting genuine viewers who are more likely to watch content that appears widely viewed. Furthermore, on platforms that offer monetization based on views, this fraudulent activity is intended to illegitimately increase revenue. Historically, the pursuit of online influence and financial gain has fueled the development and use of these deceptive tools, despite the clear ethical and often legal implications.
