WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced that it is distributing more than $2 million in refunds to 39,500 consumers who were misled by fraudulent get-rich-quick schemes during the financial crisis of the late 2000s.
The refunds stem from a lawsuit filed by the FTC in 2009 against self-proclaimed “gurus” John Beck, John Alexander, and Jeff Paul, along with marketers Gary Hewitt, Doug Gravink, and associated companies. The deceptive programs, marketed under names like “John Beck’s Free & Clear Real Estate System” and “Jeff Paul’s Shortcuts to Internet Millions,” promised consumers easy financial success through kits and coaching programs.
The FTC’s complaint alleged that the defendants failed to deliver on their promises, leaving many consumers financially worse off after purchasing kits, subscriptions, and costly coaching services. Following litigation, the court sided with the FTC, imposing a judgment requiring the group to refund customers.
Recipients of the refund checks are advised to cash them within 90 days, as indicated on the checks. Consumers with questions about their payment can contact the refund administrator, Simpluris, at 866-675-3049.
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