3. pyramids

pyramid scheme

an illegal form of multi-level marketing in which emphasis is placed on collecting initial fees from as many people as possible

solicit

to approach

recruit

to enlist

scheme

a plan

funnel

to move something in a place or use something for a particular purpose

legitimate

lawful, legal

hazy

unclear

compensation

payment (money, e.g. for work)

disguise

to hide

balloon

to increase

entice

to attract

tenacious

persistent

be wary of

to be cautious

fraud

deceit

disruptive

disturbing

bring sb in

to attract sb (to a place or business)

lose out on sth

to not profit from sth

pay in

to contribute (financially)

capitalise on

to take advantage of sth

end up

to be in a particular situation when you didn't plan it

buy in

to invest (to purchase shares in a company)

take on

to employ