Tech Startup Defrauds Investors episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 1, 2025 · 51 MIN

Tech Startup Defrauds Investors

from The Perfect Scam · host AARP

A trusted friend introduces Taylor to a man named Sylvein William Maximilian D'Habsburg XVII, a tech whiz and the inventor of a fascinating new robotic technology. His gigantic insect-like robots promise to be a game changer in military applications. He offers her what feels like the opportunity of a lifetime, getting in on the ground floor of this innovative tech, and she invests $50,000 of her inheritance. But the returns she is promised never materialize, and when she seeks to withdraw her funds, Sylvein makes excuses and reveals he's under investigation by the FBI. Ultimately, Sylvein pleads guilty to stealing nearly $6 million from investors, including many members of the local Filipino church community, and using the money to purchase luxury cars and rare antiques.

NOW PLAYING

Tech Startup Defrauds Investors

0:00 51:44

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of The Perfect Scam?

This episode is 51 minutes long.

When was this The Perfect Scam episode published?

This episode was published on August 1, 2025.

What is this episode about?

A trusted friend introduces Taylor to a man named Sylvein William Maximilian D'Habsburg XVII, a tech whiz and the inventor of a fascinating new robotic technology. His gigantic insect-like robots promise to be a game changer in military...

Can I download this The Perfect Scam episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!