The first known matrix scheme is widely believed to be EZExpo.com, which started the popularity of matrix schemes in 2002.<ref name =msn1/> By 2003 more than 200 matrix schemes were in operation, including one which had the same owner as the payment processor Stormpay[[StormPay]] (TymGlobal). Subsequently, both TymGlobal and StormpayStormPay were accused of running an illegal Ponzi scheme.<ref name = leaf>{{cite web | url = https://pixyrs.com/mlm-software-development.php| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180210194900/http://www.pixyrs.com/mlm-software-development.php| url-status = dead| archive-date = 10 February 2018| title = mlm business | accessdate = 10 August 2006}} </ref> StormpayStormPay later claimed to be independent of TymGlobal, and they stopped accepting matrix schemes as customers. Although many have since ceased trading, some schemes are still known to be operating worldwide. The payment processor, StormpayStormPay, is no longer trading.
