HotNews No. 129: myWorld — Another Pyramid Scheme Exposed in Spain

After years of suspicion and numerous victims, the head of myWorld Spain, Joaquin Garcia de la Brena, has been arrested on charges of pyramid fraud. This news confirms that classic scam patterns are still being uncovered, but also highlights the need for caution with all complex MLM structures.

How did myWorld work?
MyWorld operated as a membership and loyalty program where investors had to make an initial deposit of €2,000, followed by monthly payments between €99 and €399. They were promised “passive, recurring, lifetime income,” with monthly returns of up to €50,000 — which, of course, no one ever received.

Major losses and unpaid obligations
Victims reported total losses exceeding €5 million, while the company reportedly profited over €52 million through its pyramid scheme structure. Over 800 victims filed a criminal complaint after attempts to recover their money dragged on for more than a year without success.

What do investigators say?
The Spanish National Police have been investigating since March 2023 under “Operation Peldano,” which culminated in Garcia de la Brena’s arrest in July 2025. The scam is clearly defined as a pyramid scheme, with strong evidence showing that myWorld is essentially a continuation of the earlier Lyoness, which was declared an illegal pyramid scheme in Norway in 2018.

Important warning
Although authorities in several countries have recognized the scam, no serious actions have been taken yet in Austria, where the company is formally registered. This is another clear sign not to trust grand promises and unverified online investment schemes.

Conclusion
Be cautious with any offers resembling pyramid schemes that promise quick and large profits without real products or services. If you encounter similar offers or have information about suspicious companies, please contact us.

Your legal support team is here to protect and inform you.

Your DefendMe Team