Lyoness Ponzi Scammer Hubert Freidl Flees to Dubai
Hubert Freidl, the man behind the Lyoness Ponzi scheme, has fled Europe for Dubai. The move puts him far from regulators and thousands of victims worldwide.
Why Friedl Chose Dubai
Dubai is known as a safe haven for many involved in controversial business dealings. By relocating there, Freidl has created both legal and regulatory distance from his past. Experts believe he may also be preparing for possible criminal charges.
Freidl, an Austrian national, reportedly left Europe around April 2026. This came just months after his Lyoness empire collapsed in September 2025.
The Rise and Fall of Lyoness
Freidl launched Lyoness in 2003. The company originally asked consumers to invest in “account units.” Over two decades, he repeatedly rebranded it — first as Lyconet, then Cashback World, and finally myWorld.
At the time of collapse, Lyoness owed creditors more than $110 million. The total undocumented losses over 22 years are believed to be much higher.
Authorities Fail to Act
Despite the massive losses suffered by victims, Austrian authorities have taken no significant action against Freidl. This inaction allowed him to leave the country freely.
In contrast, Spanish police arrested Joaquin Garcia de la Brena, head of myWorld Spain, shortly before the collapse. It remains unclear whether Austrian officials are even investigating Freidl or Lyoness.
New Life in Dubai as “Strategic Advisor”
Now settled in Dubai, Freidl is trying to reinvent himself. On May 3, 2026, he registered the domain salters.com.
He presents Salters Advisory as a boutique firm that helps selected founders and ventures with strategy, structure, and execution. The website describes the company as “Based in Dubai. Operating globally.”
