Stephen Harrison, the Englishman who posed as the CEO of the collapsed crypto scheme HyperVerse, has expressed regret to investors who lost money in the alleged $19bn fraud. Harrison told Guardian Australia he was paid 180,000 Thai baht (about £4,000) over nine months and a free suit to play the role of Steven Reece Lewis for the scheme's launch in late 2021 and early 2022.
Harrison said he was 'shocked' to learn the company had presented him with fake credentials, including claims of degrees from Leeds and Cambridge universities and over 10 years of fintech experience. He said he had no role in the scheme and denied pocketing any investor funds. 'I am sorry for these people,' he said. 'I do feel deeply sorry for these people, I really do.'
Harrison, a freelance television presenter at the time, said he was approached by a friend of a friend for the work. He initially had suspicions about the company but was reassured by his agent and conducted online research that appeared legitimate. He said he was told to use a fake name for his second recording, which he accepted as normal for an acting role.
Chainalysis estimates that investors lost US$1.3bn in 2022 alone related to HyperVerse. Harrison said he hoped for justice and a resolution for victims. He came forward after a YouTuber revealed his true identity following Guardian Australia's investigation into the scheme.
