Earlier Ponzi's spoiled the name of "Affiliate Marketing" term and now they use Blockchain name to pull money out of peoples pocket. I had been a victim for such kinds of programs but it's completely messed.
So what you do is do the research yourself before investing, and don't do Ponzi's and HYIP schemes.
If you invest in Crypto and Altcoins make sure you check the isn't that MLM company.