As cryptocurrency continues to grow in popularity, it's no surprise that various schemes and scams have also surfaced. Among these, MLM (multi-level marketing) crypto schemes are becoming increasingly common. While MLMs themselves are not inherently illegal, when combined with cryptocurrency, they can become predatory, relying on unrealistic promises of high returns and recruitment-focused models.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify and avoid MLM crypto schemes, and what to look out for to protect your investments.
What Are MLM Crypto Schemes?
MLM crypto schemes often blend the structure of multi-level marketing with the allure of high cryptocurrency profits. In these schemes, participants are typically encouraged to invest in a specific cryptocurrency or token and then recruit others to do the same. The promise is usually that as you bring in more recruits, you’ll earn commissions or bonuses, often through a complicated compensation plan.
However, many of these schemes focus less on actual crypto trading or investment and more on growing the recruitment network. This pyramid-like structure can lead to the downfall of the scheme, as eventually, there won't be enough new participants to sustain the payouts.
Warning Signs of MLM Crypto Schemes
Unrealistic Promises of High Returns One of the biggest red flags in MLM crypto schemes is the promise of incredibly high returns with little to no risk. Any investment that claims guaranteed or unusually high profits, especially in the volatile world of cryptocurrency, should be approached with caution.
Legitimate crypto investments come with risk, and no one can guarantee consistent returns. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Focus on Recruitment Over Product MLM schemes typically emphasize recruiting new members over the actual product or service being sold. If the scheme talks more about expanding your network and building downlines than about the cryptocurrency or technology behind it, that’s a significant red flag.
In a legitimate business, the focus should be on the value of the product or service, not solely on getting more people involved.
Complex and Confusing Compensation Plans Another characteristic of MLM crypto schemes is overly complex compensation structures. If the commission plan is difficult to understand, involves multiple tiers, or requires a lot of recruiting to see any real profit, it could be a sign of a pyramid scheme.
Genuine opportunities offer clear and straightforward ways to earn based on your own contributions, rather than the recruitment of others.
No Real Product or Service Many MLM crypto schemes don't have a real product or service behind them. Instead, they use cryptocurrency tokens or "investment packages" that promise future value. However, these tokens often have no real-world use or technology backing them, making them essentially worthless.
If the "investment" is in a token that isn’t listed on any reputable exchange or doesn’t have a clear utility, it’s worth investigating further.
Pressure to Act Quickly Scammers often create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to act quickly before an “exclusive” opportunity closes. They might use fear of missing out (FOMO) to lure you into the scheme. If you’re being pressured to join or invest without proper time for research, take a step back and consider the risks.
The Recruitment Trap: How It Works
The recruitment aspect of MLM crypto schemes can be incredibly harmful. In these schemes, new participants are told they can make money simply by recruiting others into the program. While early participants might earn some money, this model is unsustainable over time. Eventually, the pool of new recruits dries up, and the scheme collapses, leaving latecomers with significant losses.
Moreover, the constant pressure to recruit can damage personal relationships and lead to social isolation. Those involved may find themselves in a never-ending cycle of recruitment, trying to keep up with the scheme’s demands while seeing little to no return on their investment.
How to Protect Yourself from MLM Crypto Scams
Do Your Research Before investing in any cryptocurrency project, make sure to do thorough research. Check the legitimacy of the company, its team members, and the technology behind the token. If the information is vague or non-existent, it’s best to stay away.
Also, look for reviews and experiences from other users. If there are numerous reports of people losing money or having difficulty withdrawing funds, consider it a red flag.
Understand the Business Model Take the time to understand how the platform or company is making money. If the focus is entirely on recruitment, with little emphasis on the product or service, it’s likely a pyramid scheme. Genuine investments generate revenue from the product or service offered, not from bringing in new members.
Be Skeptical of High Returns If the opportunity promises guaranteed returns or extremely high profits, approach with caution. No legitimate investment can promise consistent, high returns without risk. Cryptocurrency markets are notoriously volatile, and any platform offering such guarantees is likely misleading investors.
Check for Licensing and Regulation A legitimate cryptocurrency business will often operate under certain licenses and regulations, depending on the country or region. Make sure the company or exchange you’re considering is properly licensed and regulated to avoid falling into a scam.
Avoid High Initial Fees Many MLM crypto schemes require a high initial investment or membership fee, with the promise of future returns. If the initial costs seem excessive or are followed by constant demands for additional investments, it’s a red flag.
Conclusion: Be Smart, Stay Safe
While cryptocurrency is an exciting and evolving space, it's also a fertile ground for scams and fraudulent schemes. MLM crypto schemes, in particular, prey on people’s desire for financial freedom and quick profits. However, the risks are high, and many of these schemes collapse, leaving participants with significant financial losses.
To protect yourself, always approach crypto investments with caution. Do your research, understand the business model, and be skeptical of any opportunity that promises high returns with little effort. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid the traps of MLM crypto schemes and make smarter, safer investment decisions.