Current Date 18 Sep, 2026

Alleged mastermind of $165M crypto Ponzi scheme faces US charges

Edward Zimbardi, alleged architect of a $165 million digital-asset Ponzi scheme called The Crypto Program, was deported from Fiji to the U.S. to face federal wire fraud and money-laundering charges. Prosecutors say he solicited investments promising 25% monthly returns, diverted funds to risky trades and personal expenses, and used new investor money to pay earlier investors before fleeing.