FBI Warns: Bitcoin ATM Scams Stealing Millions from Americans

The FBI has issued a warning regarding the alarming rise of Bitcoin ATM scams that have cost Americans over $333 million in 2025. These scams are particularly targeting older adults, who often fall prey due to a lack of familiarity with cryptocurrency and heightened emotions. The nature of Bitcoin ATM transactions makes it easy for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting victims.

Understanding Bitcoin ATM Scams

Bitcoin ATMs might resemble conventional cash dispensers but operate in a fundamentally different way. Transactions made through these machines are irreversible, making the recovery of lost funds extremely difficult for victims. The absence of consumer protection laws further complicates matters, creating an environment where scammers can thrive.

Common Scam Scenarios

• Urgent Government Call: Victims receive a phone call from someone falsely representing the IRS or local law enforcement. The caller claims there’s an urgent issue with their account and instructs them to deposit cash into a Bitcoin ATM.
• Tech Support Lockout: A pop-up message on a victim’s computer claims it is infected with malware. A so-called tech support agent convinces them that they must pay through a Bitcoin ATM to resolve the issue.
• Family Emergency Scam: Scammers often target older adults with fake stories about loved ones being in distress. Emotional pressure can lead victims to act hastily and deposit funds into a Bitcoin ATM.

Identifying a Bitcoin ATM Scam

Awareness of the hallmarks of Bitcoin ATM scams can help prevent financial loss. Common signs include:

• Requests for payment exclusively through Bitcoin ATMs.
• Urgent demands for immediate action.
• Requests for confidentiality.
• Unsolicited calls, emails, or alerts.
• Instructions to convert cash into cryptocurrency.

Remember, no legitimate organization will request payment through a Bitcoin ATM.

Staying Safe from Bitcoin ATM Scams

To protect oneself from these scams, it is crucial to take a cautious approach. Here are several tips to consider:

• Always verify unsolicited requests using known, trusted contact methods.
• Discuss alerts or pop-ups with family members before acting.
• Be skeptical of payment methods such as gift cards or crypto ATMs.
• Never act alone, especially with large amounts of money involved.

Technology as a Defensive Measure

While scammers are improving their tactics, individuals can leverage technology to safeguard themselves. Tools such as Bitdefender Scamio offer AI-driven detection of potential scams, helping identify suspicious communications and payment requests. Bitdefender’s Family Plans can also extend protection across multiple devices, ensuring that all family members, especially older relatives, are covered under one subscription.

These plans provide a range of features, including email protection against phishing attempts, scam detection, call blocking, and antimalware technology. By adopting these tools, individuals can enhance their defenses against the growing threat of Bitcoin ATM scams.