You invest; the operator does the rest
You pay→Operator promises returns→New investors' money pays earlier investors
The investor is generally passive. The structure depends on a continuing inflow of new money to meet promises to earlier investors.
Ponzi & Pyramid Scheme Watch
Check the scheme before you trust the promise.
Search officially documented South African warnings, enforcement actions and court-recorded cases, then use the warning-sign checklist before paying or recruiting anyone.
How to read this database:Status labels reflect the wording and procedural stage in the cited official source. A regulator warning is not the same thing as a criminal conviction or court finding. Open the official source before drawing conclusions.
Reported & officially documented schemes
Search names and aliases such as MMM, MTI or BHI. Each record links directly to the authority or court source used.
10 ways to spot a possible Ponzi scheme
One warning sign is not proof by itself. Several together — particularly unrealistic returns, unclear underlying activity and withdrawal problems — should trigger independent verification.
Checklist synthesis: SARB / Prudential Authority Ponzi and pyramid guidance plus FSCA consumer warnings and the official case records in Scheme Watch. SARB guidance ↗ · FSCA warnings ↗
Ponzi and pyramid are related — but not identical
SARB distinguishes them mainly by the participant's role.
≠
You pay and are expected to recruit
You join→You recruit others→Rewards move up the structure
Active recruitment is a central feature. Returns or benefits are tied to bringing additional participants into the scheme.
Source: South African Reserve Bank / Prudential Authority guidance on illegal deposit-taking, pyramid schemes and Ponzi schemes. Open official guidance ↗
Check Before You Invest
Five checks before money leaves your account.
Registration is one part of due diligence. Verify the exact entity, the activity being offered and where your money is actually going.
Seen a new scheme?
Report a Ponzi / pyramid schemeHelp us investigate the pattern responsibly.
Submit the name, website, social accounts, payment instructions, promises made to you and screenshots. Your report remains private until moderation and verification are complete.
Advertisement