Srinagar, Mar 11: A growing number of website owners in Kashmir have alleged that web developers frequently exploit clients’ lack of technical knowledge, with some claiming that “almost 99.99999 percent” of developers in the region end up cheating clients by controlling critical website assets.

According to those affected, problems often begin when clients hand over full control of domain registration, hosting, and advertising accounts to developers. “Clients pay thousands of rupees to build a website, but the developer keeps control of the domain, hosting, and admin access,” said a Srinagar-based website owner. “When clients want to make changes or move the website, the developer either demands more money or refuses to cooperate.”
Several website operators added that many clients are unaware of the actual costs of domain names and hosting, allowing developers to charge several times more while retaining ownership of accounts. Victims also alleged that some developers deliberately create or exaggerate technical issues to demand additional payment for “fixing” them.
With the rise of artificial intelligence tools, many website owners are now able to take control of their sites independently. “After being cheated multiple times, I purchased the domain and hosting myself and built my website with the help of AI tools, without any developer intervention,” said a local journalist. AI platforms like Google Gemini and ChatGPT can now guide users in resolving technical problems step by step.
Experts and victims advise new website owners to take precautions, including registering domains and hosting accounts in their own names, retaining administrator access to the website’s content management system, and keeping control of advertising accounts like AdSense. They also warned against developers hosting multiple client websites on a single server while charging separately.
“Developers can assist with design and maintenance, but ownership and core control must remain with the client,” said a website operator. Many stressed that greater awareness among clients is essential to prevent exploitation as Kashmir continues to grow its online presence.