TikTok Refugees Flock to RedNote Amid US Ban – But Is Everything As It Seems?
The recent ban of TikTok in the United States has sparked a mass migration of users to alternative platforms, with Xiaohongshu (commonly known as RedNote) emerging as an unexpected leader. Initially celebrated as a promising new home for displaced TikTok creators, RedNote’s rapid rise has taken a darker turn. Exclusive revelations show that much of the app’s newfound success stems from the efforts of Chinese marketing firms using generative AI to create fake accounts, manipulate audiences, and profit from attention. In a confidential interview with a firm in Hangzhou, China, the inner workings of this operation were unveiled. Here’s an in-depth report on this digital deception.
RedNote’s Meteoric Rise: TikTok’s Loss, RedNote’s Gain?
According to SensorTower, RedNote has skyrocketed in the U.S. app market, climbing from 74th place to the number one spot for two consecutive days (January 14–15, 2025). Initially hailed as a hub for displaced TikTok creators, the app’s rapid ascent raised eyebrows. A closer look revealed that professional Chinese marketing firms have played a significant role in driving this influx, using advanced technology to flood the platform with inauthentic activity.
Inside the Hangzhou Firm Fueling RedNote’s Surge
In an exclusive interview under strict anonymity, a marketing firm in Hangzhou, China, revealed the mechanics behind RedNote’s rise. Known for its expertise in TikTok marketing, the firm has shifted its focus to exploiting the surge of “TikTok refugees” by creating fake U.S. accounts.
The firm’s strategy includes using generative AI to craft convincing profiles, selecting popular TikTok accounts with substantial video libraries, and employing AI tools to replace and manipulate faces. Lip-syncing algorithms then synchronize ChatGPT-generated narratives, often featuring emotional appeals about TikTok’s shutdown or praises for Chinese culture. These tools create highly engaging, seemingly authentic content that quickly gains traction.
“We identify accounts with good engagement, modify their visuals and narratives using AI, and then automate the process of uploading and managing fan interactions,” the firm’s engineer shared.
Advanced Tools and Fraudulent Practices
The Hangzhou-based firm revealed a sophisticated system to ensure the believability of their fake accounts:
- US Identity Simulation: They purchase fake U.S. phone numbers and IP addresses to create the illusion of authenticity.
- Automated Engagement: Algorithms manage uploads and responses, mimicking genuine influencer behavior.
- Rapid Growth: Many fake accounts amassed thousands of followers within just one or two days, thanks to these advanced techniques.
The firm even mocked competitors for their lack of precision, stating, “Some of their fake accounts are so poorly executed that their IP addresses still show as being in China.”
Profiting From Deception: A New Economy of Fakes
The motivation behind this elaborate deception is profit. “In this era of attention, followers and views are currency,” the engineer explained. With a large enough following, these fake accounts command high ad rates. Additionally, the firm monetizes by selling courses, with language lessons being a popular choice.
By targeting international audiences, these firms exploit the demand for influencers and educators, creating a lucrative yet ethically dubious ecosystem.
Cracks in the Facade: Will the Scam Be Exposed?
Despite the Hangzhou firm’s confidence, their engineer admitted that the scheme might not endure long-term. “It won’t last very long before people realize it’s a scam, leading to the demise of these fake identities,” they said. As users and authorities grow more vigilant, the future of these operations—and RedNote’s reputation—hangs in the balance.
The engineer further remarked, “But RedNote for sure likes to see this traffic rise. We are creating a new scheme that is loved by everybody: the Chinese viewers, RedNote, us, and possibly the Chinese government too.” This statement highlights the potential complicity of multiple stakeholders in benefiting from this artificial surge in activity, suggesting that the platform and even broader entities may be turning a blind eye to the deceptive practices in pursuit of growth and influence. This raises critical questions about the ethics of fostering such ecosystems and the long-term impact on trust in social media platforms.
Conclusion: The Fragile Future of RedNote’s Boom
While the exact percentage of fake accounts in the current "TikTok refugee" rush to RedNote remains unverified, the long-term sustainability of these deceptive practices is highly doubtful. As awareness grows among users, both in China and internationally, it is only a matter of time before these fabricated identities and fraudulent schemes are exposed. The initial surge in RedNote’s popularity, though significant, risks unraveling if the platform fails to address these ethical and operational concerns.
Ultimately, the reliance on artificial traffic and generative AI to manufacture influence may undermine RedNote’s credibility and alienate genuine users. Unless the platform prioritizes authenticity and transparency, its newfound fame could become a fleeting chapter in the ever-evolving landscape of social media.