If becoming a millionaire from your couch sounds too good to be true, that’s because it usually is. Even snake oil salesmen wear suits these days.
In this publication, we're uncovering a scam that has been making waves and could potentially affect you or someone you know. Let’s dive right in.
The FTC has cracked down on a multi-million dollar scam that promised financial freedom through real estate and ecommerce coaching—but left victims empty-handed and out tens of thousands.
The operation, run under the name Ganadores by Robert Shemin, lured consumers in with flashy promises of quitting their jobs and living the dream—only to deliver overpriced and underwhelming “training” that didn’t live up to the hype.
How It Works:
• Shemin and his team pitched a “fail-proof” system for getting rich via real estate investing or ecommerce businesses.
• Consumers paid thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—for coaching programs.
• The content was often generic, ineffective, and failed to deliver on income promises.
• They made bold claims without evidence and pushed urgency to close sales fast.
Who’s Targeted:
- Aspiring entrepreneurs
- Individuals seeking financial independence
- People looking to leave their 9-to-5 jobs
- Often middle-income earners desperate for change
These scams especially appeal to people who are vulnerable to motivational hype and "rags to riches" stories.
Real-Life Example:
In a recent FTC case, Shemin was found to have violated consumer protection laws. Under a court order:
- He is permanently banned from selling or marketing real estate or ecommerce coaching.
- He must back up all earnings claims with evidence.
- He is required to turn over assets for consumer refunds.
Though the judgment totals over $20 million, most of it is suspended based on his inability to pay—unless he’s caught hiding money, in which case the full amount becomes due.
Why You Should Care:
Scams like these don’t just take your money—they rob you of time, energy, and dreams.
People invest their savings, go into debt, or cash out retirement accounts in the hope of changing their lives—only to be left with vague advice, broken promises, and no support.
This isn’t just about “falling for a scam.” It’s about being manipulated during a time of hope, change, or desperation.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Research first. Look up company names and reviews before buying any coaching service.
- Ask for proof. If someone claims you’ll earn big, ask to see documented results from real clients.
- Avoid urgency traps. If they say the offer is “about to expire”—it’s a sales tactic.
- Know your rights. The FTC prohibits deceptive marketing and unsubstantiated income claims.
- Report scams. File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Quick Tips & Updates
Quick Tip: “Success stories” on a website or video may be scripted or paid endorsements. Don’t trust testimonials without proof.
Pro Tip: Legitimate coaches or investment experts will never promise guaranteed profits—or push you to max out your credit card.
Stay safe, stay informed.
Keyword Definitions:
- Ecommerce Coaching Scam: A fraudulent scheme in which victims are charged large fees for training that claims to teach how to make money online but delivers little to no value.
- Real Estate Coaching Scam: Similar to ecommerce scams, these involve high-priced seminars or courses on flipping houses or investing, often without tangible results.
- Unsubstantiated Earnings Claims: Promises about making specific amounts of money that are not backed by verified results.
- Consumer Refunds: The return of money to individuals who were misled or harmed by a deceptive product or service.
- FTC (Federal Trade Commission): The U.S. government agency responsible for protecting consumers from fraud and deceptive business practices.
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