{"success":true,"data":{"id":"fake-mlm-pyramid-scheme-recruitment-scam","label":"Fake MLM / pyramid scheme recruitment — network marketing business opportunity + buy starter kit + build downline + earn from recruits' recruits","description":"Email recruiting recipients into a multi-level marketing (MLM) or pyramid scheme — framed as a \"home business opportunity,\" \"network marketing opportunity,\" or \"ground floor opportunity\" — where compensation depends primarily on recruiting new participants rather than selling products. Hallmarks: requirement to purchase a \"starter kit,\" \"starter pack,\" or \"initial investment\" ($99–$299+) to join; emphasis on earnings from a \"downline\" of recruits (and their recruits); promises of \"passive income,\" \"residual income,\" or \"unlimited earning potential\"; pressure to \"recruit friends and family.\" FTC 2021 report: 99.6% of MLM participants lose money or earn nothing; median annual income from MLM participation is $0. Real sales jobs pay base salary and do not require personal purchases to start working.","tier":"danger","category":"scam","isThin":false}}