I have seen my follower number rise also. I use GINAbot and I see someone followed me then a little bit later unfollowed me and it repeats over and over. I have got some followers that are upvoting and responding with comments but not but about 1% do. It is nice to see that big number just wish they would comment and upvote too.
I think the people you are talking about broke Steemit and that is why the prices of Steem and SBD have dropped so bad. LOL. I agree that Steemit can be and will be a great place if people get involved in it for the right reasons, but there are always the takers. Steem On!