Iranian authorities have accused Kim Kardashian of working as a secret agent for Instagram, encouraging young people to shun conservative traditions and use social media.

The reality TV star boasts over 70 million followers on the photo-sharing site alone, and often shows off her figure in sexy outfits, while also flaunting her lavish lifestyle. She has also become known for stripping off for the occasional nude snap, with her last naked image in March (16) earning her the first-ever Break the Internet gong at the Webby Awards in New York on Monday night (16May16).

However, officials at the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corp, an organisation set up to help protect the country's Islamic traditions and prevent foreign interference, have questioned the real reason for Kim's Internet popularity, claiming she has been recruited by Instagram boss Kevin Systrom to target "young people and women" and turn them on to modelling.

"Ms. Kim Kardashian is a popular fashion model so Instagram's CEO tells her, 'Make this (modelling) native'," Mostafa Alizadeh, a spokesman for the militant group, reportedly told local news outlet Iran Wire. "There is no doubt that financial support is involved as well. We are taking this very seriously."

The accusations have come as a surprise to Kanye West's wife, 35, who was informed of the odd report upon arrival in France for the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday (17May16).

"What? For who?" she exclaimed to People.com after hearing the bizarre claims for the first time. "I just landed and came here (from the airport). I have not heard that one."