In Mexico, social media is a dangerous battleground for drug cartels. Since a big cartel split into fighting groups in 2024, criminal gangs use popular influencers for propaganda , showing off power, and attracting young members.
At least 19 internet stars died after being linked to criminal organizations.
Some influencers make videos about drug culture for clicks, while others are investigated for helping cartels clean illegal money through private businesses and shops. Police struggle to stop the violence, and very few murders are ever solved.
Social media companies try to ban bad profiles, but cartels use hidden codes to break rules. As a result, young influencers are still in danger.