The gaming world is full of money-making ideas. And as with all lucrative endeavors, there will arise criminal endeavors. Sometimes in the form of a video game Ponzi scheme. In the Middle East, one man is currently on the hook as a fugitive game developer.
Fugitive Game Developer on Hook for Video Game Ponzi Scheme
A fugitive game developer is on the hook for some serious crimes. Mehmet Aydin, of Turkey, stands accused of running a video game Ponzi scheme. According to court documents, the man used his game Farm Bank (or Ciftlik Bank in Turkey) to scam millions of dollars. His game, much like the famous Farmville, allowed players to trade crops and farm animals.
The fugitive game developer told players “your money is going to a real farm.” On this farm would be animals that Farm Bank‘s player base would collectively own. Indeed, there was a farm located in Europe. But this farm had far fewer than the thousands of cows Aydin said there would be.
After being charged by Turkey’s Customs Ministry for aggravated fraud, the fugitive game developer ran off to Brazil. At the request of the Turkish government, Mehmet Aydin is to stand trial in the Middle East. He awaits trial for aggravated fraud for using the Farm Bank game.
Back in March, an illegal cheat operation was broken up in China. In a team effort with Tencent and the Chinese government, the two groups found millions and are in possession of millions in cheat technology and assets.
The fugitive game developer is going to be the first of many stories we’ll hear. But it certainly is unfortunate. You can donate to a farm without the worry of funding a scam. While it can be hard to tell, one should take the time and thoroughly research an app or game. If you’d like to donate to a farm sanctuary, you can do so here and show your support with accessories here.
What do you think of this recent scam? Have you heard of anything just as crazy? Let me know in the comments!
