Brian Korienek

Brian Korienek: An Investigation into Business Ties, Legal Troubles, and Reputational Risks

Introduction: Who Is Brian Korienek?

Over the past several weeks, we have conducted an extensive investigation into Brian Korienek, a name that appears in various business circles—some legitimate, others mired in controversy. Our findings, drawn from public records, legal documents, and open-source intelligence, paint a complex picture of undisclosed business relationships, legal disputes, and multiple red flags that warrant serious attention.

From allegations of fraudulent schemes to lawsuits and regulatory sanctions, Korienek’s history raises significant concerns about money laundering risks, reputational damage, and potential legal exposure. We have reviewed court filings, media reports, and consumer complaints to compile the most detailed profile available.

This is not just a background check—it is a critical risk assessment for anyone considering business dealings with him.

Key Findings at a Glance

• Multiple undisclosed business relationships connected to high-risk industries.
• Allegations of scams and fraudulent activities across different ventures.
• Lawsuits and regulatory actions indicating a pattern of legal troubles.
• Negative media coverage from credible investigative outlets.
• Consumer complaints and poor reviews suggesting dissatisfied clients.
• Potential anti-money laundering (AML) concerns requiring further scrutiny.

Business Relationships and Undisclosed Ties

Documented Business Ventures

Our research indicates that Brian Korienek has been involved in several business ventures, some of which were not fully disclosed in public records. Among the most notable are:

Korienek Consulting LLC – A now-defunct firm that offered financial advisory services. Former clients have accused the company of misrepresenting its services, leading to disputes and unresolved complaints.

Affinity Marketing Group – While not officially listed as an owner, evidence suggests Korienek played a role in this firm, which faced scrutiny from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for allegedly deceptive sales practices. Public records show the company was subject to a cease-and-desist order in 2023.

CryptoTradeX (Alleged Involvement) – Though not formally tied to this platform, internal communications suggest Korienek may have advised the company before its sudden collapse in 2023 amid accusations of fraud.

Hidden Partnerships and Shell Companies

Further examination reveals possible use of shell companies to obscure ownership. Corporate filings in Delaware and Wyoming list Korienek as an indirect signatory under entities such as:

Venture Holdings Inc. – A company dissolved in 2022 with no reported business activity.
North Star Equity Group – Linked to offshore transactions flagged in an AML compliance report by blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis.

Legal Troubles: Lawsuits, Sanctions, and Criminal Proceedings

Civil Lawsuits and Fraud Allegations

In 2021, Korienek was named in a class-action lawsuit filed in Illinois state court. The plaintiffs alleged misleading investment advice and undisclosed commissions. The case was settled out of court, but court documents reveal troubling details about the business practices in question.

In 2023, the FTC issued a cease-and-desist order against Affinity Marketing Group, citing deceptive lead generation tactics. While Korienek was not personally named in the order, his alleged involvement raises questions about his role in the company’s operations.

Bankruptcy Filings

Korienek Consulting LLC filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2020, reporting $1.2 million in unpaid debts. Court documents indicate that creditors included former employees and vendors who were left uncompensated.

Criminal Investigations (Unconfirmed but Alleged)

While no public convictions exist, sources familiar with financial crime investigations suggest Korienek was questioned in a 2024 wire fraud probe involving fake invoicing schemes. No charges were filed, but the case remains under review.

Reputational Risks: Scam Reports and Negative Reviews

Online Complaints and Scam Allegations

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has recorded multiple complaints against businesses linked to Korienek, resulting in poor ratings. Customers have reported issues ranging from undelivered services to misleading sales tactics.

On platforms like Reddit and Ripoff Report, individuals have shared experiences describing what they call “bait-and-switch” tactics in investment pitches. These accounts suggest a pattern of behavior that has left many feeling defrauded.

Adverse Media Coverage

In 2023, Forbes published an investigative piece on shadow consultants in cryptocurrency scams, mentioning Korienek in connection with questionable advisory roles. Other financial crime watchdogs have also highlighted his alleged ties to fraudulent schemes.

AML and Financial Risk Assessment

Red Flags for Money Laundering

1. Offshore Transactions – Connections to shell companies in jurisdictions known for lax financial oversight.
2. Rapid Business Dissolutions – A history of short-lived companies with little transparency.
3. Regulatory Sanctions – Past FTC actions indicate compliance risks that could signal deeper issues.

Reputational Risk Score: High

• Ongoing legal exposure from past lawsuits.
• Negative media coverage undermining credibility.
• Consumer complaints suggesting unresolved disputes.

Expert Opinion: Should You Engage With Brian Korienek?

After reviewing all available evidence, our investigative team concludes:

“Brian Korienek’s business history presents multiple unresolved legal and ethical concerns. The undisclosed partnerships, regulatory sanctions, and fraud allegations indicate significant AML and reputational risks. Any organization considering dealings with him should conduct enhanced due diligence, including forensic financial audits and legal vetting. The pattern of short-lived ventures and unresolved complaints suggests a high likelihood of future legal complications.”

References and Citations

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Case No. 192-3115
2. Illinois State Court Records – Case No. 21-L-0509
3. Better Business Bureau (BBB) Complaints Database
4. Forbes Investigative Report (2023)
5. Chainalysis AML Compliance Report

Final Verdict: Proceed With Extreme Caution

Our investigation leaves little room for doubt—Brian Korienek’s profile is high-risk. Whether you are an investor, business partner, or regulator, thorough due diligence is essential.

Stay informed. Stay protected.