The bottom line: The FBI warns of a 58 percent increase in losses from cryptocurrency ATM fraud. In 2025, the agency recorded over 13,400 complaints with total losses of $388 million. Several states have already imposed bans.
The FBI warns of a massive surge in cryptocurrency ATM fraud. In the past year, the agency recorded over 13,400 complaints and losses exceeding $388 million – an increase of 58 percent compared to 2024.
The FBI reports alarming losses due to fraud involving cryptocurrency ATMs, also known as Bitcoin ATMs. These physical terminals resemble conventional ATMs and enable the purchase or sale of cryptocurrencies using cash or debit cards. They are commonly located at gas stations and convenience stores.
The fraud scheme follows a typical pattern: cybercriminals instruct victims to deposit cash at the ATM, which is then transferred to the perpetrators’ accounts. According to the FBI, the agency received over 13,400 complaints in 2025 with losses exceeding $388 million. This represents an increase of 23 percent in complaints and 58 percent in losses compared to 2024. More than half of the victims were over 50 years old, with losses exceeding $302 million.
The most affected states are Texas, Florida and California with over 3,300 complaints and losses exceeding $112 million. In response to these developments, several states such as Minnesota, Indiana and Tennessee have already banned cryptocurrency ATMs.
The FBI recommends various protective measures: do not transfer money to unknown online contacts, be cautious of unknown QR codes, directly verify phone calls and do not share personal data. Special caution is warranted when alleged government representatives demand cryptocurrency payments.