Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise of the e-commerce distribution platform "Doubao Haowu," which has attracted attention due to its low entry barriers and promises of double rebates, but is facing allegations of operating as a pyramid scheme [2][11]. Group 1: Business Model and Operations - "Doubao Haowu" operates on a model that requires users to pay a one-time fee of 2000 yuan to become a member, promising double returns on purchases made through shared links [2][6]. - The platform claims to share profits with users who promote products, but the actual pricing of products is often higher than competitors like JD, Taobao, and Pinduoduo [6][7]. - The platform's marketing strategy includes a tiered commission structure, where users can earn commissions from direct sales and from the sales made by their recruits, resembling a multi-level marketing structure [9][10]. Group 2: Legal and Regulatory Concerns - There are concerns that "Doubao Haowu" may be operating in a gray area of legality, as its business model includes elements typical of pyramid schemes, such as requiring fees for membership and incentivizing recruitment [11][12]. - Legal experts have pointed out that the platform's practices align with the characteristics of pyramid schemes as defined by Chinese regulations, including the requirement for participants to recruit others and the payment of fees for entry [12][14]. - Local law enforcement has indicated that many cases of fraud related to such platforms do not meet the threshold for criminal prosecution, leading to a lack of accountability for the operators [3][14].