The man at the centre of an alleged international pyramid scheme operating out of Christchurch has claimed links to major film studios and global brands, as complaints mount from users who say they have lost money.

As first revealed by chrislynchmedia.com, the online platform SFCVIBE is linked to a registered address on Riccarton Road and has already drawn international concern, with the Consumer Council of Fiji describing it as a “sophisticated task based pyramid scheme designed to defraud Fijians of their hard earned money.”

A former Syrian refugee living in Christchurch said he and his family lost more than $3200 after joining the platform, which is now under scrutiny by police and the Commerce Commission.

In an email to Chris Lynch Media addressing how users are paid, Christchurch branch owner Ronald Vaz rejected any wrongdoing and pointed to what he said were partnerships with major international companies.

“Our partners in the film and television industry include the four major American film studios Walt Disney Company Universal Pictures Sony Pictures Entertainment Paramount Pictures.”

“These partner companies license their films and video content to the SFCVibe platform, where users provide genuine ratings and reviews for each work. Through the participation of a large number of users in the star rating system, we collectively complete the film and television rating work. The platform will pay each user a corresponding commission based on their participation.”

Vaz also said the platform had commercial relationships with global brands.

“In addition, we have partnered with many internationally renowned brands, including Coca Cola, Tesla and Herme’s, providing them with professional advertising and promotion services to help them increase brand exposure and market awareness.”

The platform requires users to pay upfront to access higher earning tiers, which Vaz described as a membership model.

“The upfront payment operates as a membership fee, similar to joining a club, providing access to the platform, its tools, and earning opportunities while supporting committed participation.”

“Users can trial the platform and earn $25 USD before being offered paid packages ranging from $210 USD to $450 USD. Vaz said participants could recover their initial cost within 30 to 35 days, with funds held for 365 days before being refunded or reinvested.”

However, multiple Christchurch users told Chris Lynch Media they were unable to withdraw funds.

One user said, “I put money in thinking it was legit, but when I tried to withdraw, it just kept saying I needed to complete more tasks. I never got my money back.”

Another said, “They make it look easy to earn, but once you’re in, there are always new conditions. I’ve lost hundreds.”

A third user said, “It felt like you had to keep paying or upgrading to get anything out. In the end, I walked away with nothing.”

The Commerce Commission confirmed it had opened initial enquiries into the operation.

“At this stage, we understand that the New Zealand Commerce Commission has opened an early stage investigation. No findings have been made, yet we are committed to fully cooperating with any enquiries.”

Vaz said “We confirm that we do not currently hold registration with any New Zealand regulatory or governance body

Chris Lynch Media has contacted all of the Hollywood film studios for comment.