Ukrainian TikTok Star Accused Of Faking Videos
A woman living in Ukraine says she's been accused of spreading misinformation amid the Russian invasion.
A woman living in Ukraine says she's been accused of spreading misinformation amid the Russian invasion.
Kristina Korban has more than 630,000 followers on TikTok (@kristinakorbs) and, in her mind, has been using the platform to inform her viewers on what it's like living in a war zone.
While she formerly posted videos about finance and investment, the 32-year-old has now been giving updates about her family and current situation in the country.
Kristina is also selling merchandise and uses the proceedings to donate to families in Ukraine who need help.
However, the TikToker told Insider that her comments section is full of mixed reactions, and not all her viewers take her claims at face value.
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She said: "It doesn't happen that much anymore, but some people think I'm a scammer and that I'm not in Ukraine.
"Some people would be like, 'Oh this is fake. There's no war or, you're just taking footage from COVID'. Or this and that.
"And they're expecting that if I'm not in the front lines, then I'm not in Ukraine. And that to me is already such a misinformed mindset. It's a very unrealistic mindset that some people have."
Misinformation has been prominent during the war as some videos claiming to be footage of Russia's invasion were later found to be taken from video games and other conflicts.
"We continue to closely monitor the situation, with increased resources to respond to emerging trends and remove violative content, including harmful misinformation and promotion of violence," a TikTok spokesperson said.
"We also partner with independent fact-checking organizations to further aid our efforts to help TikTok remain a safe and authentic place."
Kristina has started a donation campaign for the people of Ukraine on Chuffed, a non-profit fundraising website.
At the time of writing, more than $30,000 has been raised for those who have lost their sons in battle, those without pay, and for the elderly, according to the website.
To donate, you can visit the fundraising page here.
If you would like to donate to the Red Cross Emergency Appeal, which will help provide food, medicines and basic medical supplies, shelter and water to those in Ukraine, click here for more information
Anish Vij