The Polish competition authority, UOKiK, has taken decisive action against two companies, iGenius and International Markets Live, imposing fines totaling over 24 million PLN for their involvement in illegal pyramid schemes. These schemes primarily reward participants for recruiting new members rather than for selling or consuming products, which is a violation of Polish and EU law.

UOKiK's investigations revealed that both companies, despite claiming to offer educational services, operated under a model that fits the legal definition of prohibited pyramid promotional systems. These systems pose significant financial risks to consumers, as they require a constant influx of new members and their payments, ultimately leading to financial losses when the system collapses.

iGenius, registered in the USA, offered online investment training for a fee, encouraging participants to join a partner program that rewarded them for recruiting others. Similarly, International Markets Live operated a platform selling educational products and services, with benefits tied to the recruitment of new members. UOKiK's actions included public warnings prior to the fines, highlighting the ongoing issue of pyramid schemes in the modern digital landscape.

UOKiK's President, Tomasz Chróstny, emphasized the need for consumer vigilance against such schemes, which have evolved to appear more legitimate and professional in the online environment. The authority continues to monitor and investigate not only the schemes themselves but also the individuals promoting them.