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An investigation has been launched into a Christchurch business suspected of operating a pyramid scheme promising quick wealth.
SFCVIBE Rating, which has offices in Riccarton and Manukau, presents itself as an internet advertising service.
However, the Commerce Commission has opened an inquiry into what it believes may be apyramid-style operation.
Head of fair trading and product safety investigations Simon Pope said the company appeared to be operating in multiple countries, including New Zealand, where it has several offices.
“The scheme attracts users by offering high payouts for completing basic digital tasks, such as rating and reviewing movies,” he said.
“The scheme involves the recruitment of others. It requires new participants to join via a referral link and to pay a subscription or deposit before starting work.
“We strongly advise anyone who comes across SFCVIBE Rating to exercise caution - if what the scheme offers seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
SFCVIBE Rating, which has offices in Riccarton and Manukau, presents itself as an internet advertising service. Photo / Kurt Bayer
Pope said anyone with information or concerns should contact the Commerce Commission.
“The commission is continuing to investigate the exact nature of the scheme and will provide updates in due course.”
He also reiterated a warning issued earlier this month by the Consumer Council of Fiji, which “expressed grave concern” over the suspected pyramid scheme.
“The National Anti-Scams Taskforce has expressed grave concern as the SFC Vibe scam continues to lure in thousands of Fijians despite multiple previous warnings.
“Once again, the task force is reiterating that there is absolutely nothing to be gained by engaging in these fraudulent schemes.
“The citizens are being reminded that participation in such activities will inevitably lead to significant financial loss, and those who continue to invest are doing so at their own peril.”
They said SFCVIBE Rating “bears all the hallmarks of a fraudulent scheme”, presenting itself as a global business, despite only being registered locally on February 27, 2026 in Labasa, Fiji.
“This discovery raises the critical question of why a supposedly international entity would be newly registered in a small regional branch just days ago.”
Fiji National Anti-Scams Taskforce chair and Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development Esrom Immanuel warned the public against engaging with such schemes.
“The desire for quick and easy cash often blinds individuals to the reality of the fraud, leading to total financial ruin,” he said.
“No recruitment agency or company will ever ask you to invest a certain amount of money as a subscription, in return for more money.
