An Illinois resident has admitted to his involvement in a scheme that generated and sold fraudulent market survey data, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Erin Creegan.
Frank Hayden, 58, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. His sentencing is scheduled for May 12, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Landya B. McCafferty.
Court records indicate that the case centers on two market research firms: Op4G, based in New Hampshire, and Slice, based in Illinois. Both companies conducted market research surveys for clients using panels of individuals who could qualify as survey respondents. Hayden was first employed by Op4G before moving to Slice.
In 2014, Hayden and several co-conspirators began generating fake survey responses to boost company revenues. The group recruited individuals referred to as “ants,” who were paid small amounts to complete surveys with false information instead of genuine answers. Some conspirators also acted as “ants” themselves and received substantial payments for their participation.
To avoid detection by clients or authorities, instructions were shared among conspirators and “ants.” These included guidance on answering qualifying questions for surveys, recommended time spent on each survey, and advice on using virtual private networks (VPNs) to mask real IP addresses.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine that could reach $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense—whichever is higher. Sentencing decisions are made by federal judges based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and relevant statutes.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation into the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander S. Chen is handling prosecution duties.
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