The Federal Trade Commission has reached a settlement with the operators of Click Profit and related companies, resulting in a permanent ban from the e-commerce business opportunity industry. The action follows allegations that the defendants deceived consumers by promising to set up and manage profitable online stores, leading people to pay millions for what the FTC described as empty promises.
According to the FTC’s complaint filed in March 2025, Click Profit and its operators told consumers they would create stores on Amazon and other platforms that would generate substantial passive income. The agency said these claims about potential earnings rarely materialized. The complaint also alleged that the company falsely claimed to use advanced artificial intelligence and exclusive partnerships with major brands like Nike and Disney. Additionally, the FTC stated that Click Profit threatened consumers and used illegal contract clauses to prevent negative reviews.
"Under the proposed settlement with the FTC, Click Profit and its operators also will be required to turn over cash, real estate, and personal property that will be used for consumer redress."
Following the filing of its complaint, a federal court issued an order temporarily stopping Click Profit’s operations and placing them under a receiver’s control. A preliminary injunction was later granted.
The proposed final orders target individuals Craig Emslie, Patrick McGeoghean, William Holton, Jason Masri, and their affiliated companies: Click Profit LLC, SA Automation Enterprise LLC, M23 Holdings LLC, M7 Investments LLC, Express Ecom LLC, Ecom Direct LLC, Automation Industries LLC, and Click Profit Distribution LLC. These orders permanently prohibit involvement in any business opportunity sales or marketing efforts; making false claims regarding earnings potential or affiliations; or restricting truthful consumer reviews.
Monetary judgments include $13.6 million against Emslie, McGeoghean, Holton and their entities, as well as $7.3 million against Masri and his associated businesses. These judgments are partially suspended due to inability to pay but could become fully payable if it is found that defendants misrepresented their financial status.
"The Commission vote approving the stipulated final orders was 3-0. The FTC filed the proposed order in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Stipulated final orders have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court Judge."
Lisa Bohl and Katharine Roller served as lead staff attorneys on this case.
"The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and protect and educate consumers. The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at consumer.ftc.gov, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Follow the FTC on social media, read consumer alerts and the business blog, and sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts."
