Crypto ATMS: What to Watch For & How to Learn More

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Fraudulent activity involving cryptocurrency kiosks is on the rise. Cryptocurrency ATMs, also known as “crypto kiosks”, can be found in supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations, bars, and restaurants. Crypto ATMs look like bank ATMs and allow people to conduct cryptocurrency transactions, such as sending money to digital wallets. However, they lack sufficient consumer fraud protections. As a result, criminals are using crypto ATMs to steal hundreds of millions of dollars from Americans each year.

AARP is working with legislators to introduce consumer protection measures here in Wisconsin. In the meantime, knowing how to spot a crypto ATM, and how they’re used in scams, is one key way to protect yourself.

Upcoming Events
Learn about the latest scams and technology like crypto ATMs at these free events.

Madison Scam Jam
Tuesday, September 30^th, 2025
1:00 – 4:00 pm
Goodman Community Center
Merrill Lynch Room
214 Waubesa St.
Madison, WI 53704
REGISTER HERE.

Green Bay Scam Jam
Thursday, October 16, 2025
1:00 – 4:00 pm
UW-Green Bay
University Union – Phoenix Rooms
2430 Campus Ct
Green Bay, WI 54311
REGISTER HERE.

How the Scams Work
Crypto kiosks can be utilized in a variety of fraud schemes including government imposter scams, business email compromise, securities fraud, and more. Perpetrators manipulate victims into believing they have to address an urgent financial matter, directing them to withdraw large amounts of cash from their banks. The individual is then instructed to insert that money into a crypto ATM and transfer the funds to the criminal via a digital QR code.

Note that criminals will make it sound like they’re offering you a sound investment opportunity, or that you need to move assets to “protect yourself”, or that you’ll be arrested if you don’t pay a ‘fine’. They may even call the crypto ATM a “law enforcement kiosk”. These are all tactics to make the scam seem more legitimate.

If you or someone you know is directed to deposit money into a crypto ATM, it is a scam. Learn more about scams and fraud at www.aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.