Minnesota Bans Crypto ATMs Due to Scam Increase

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Minnesota is stopping the use of crypto ATMs because scammers used them to take nearly $1 million from people. These machines let people turn cash into digital money quickly, which is why scammers like them.

The ban starts on August 1, 2026. People who own these machines must remove them by the end of the year. Scammers use these machines to make people pay quickly during fake emergencies.

A text scam cost someone $10,000 in crypto.

Minnesota is banning crypto ATMs because scammers used them to pressure people into making fast payments.

Between 2023 and 2025, there were 134 complaints about crypto kiosk scams in Minnesota. The total loss was almost $1 million. Many victims do not report what happened because they feel embarrassed or worried about what their family will think.

Minnesota tried to add safety measures to these machines, but scammers found ways around them. Now, the state is removing the machines from public use.

Crypto kiosks are dangerous for scam victims because they accept cash and move money quickly. Once the money is sent, it is hard to get back.

Victims often realize they were scammed only after sending the money. By then, the scammer has already moved the money.

A Florida retiree lost $200,000 in a fake PayPal refund scam.

Scammers often keep victims on the phone while they withdraw cash and use a crypto kiosk.

Most crypto ATM scams start with pressure. The scammer may claim the victim missed jury duty or that a grandchild is in trouble.

The scammer then demands payment. The victim may be told to withdraw cash and go to a crypto kiosk. The scammer may stay on the phone and tell the victim to ignore warnings on the machine.

We have seen this pattern before. The scam starts with a believable story, then the pressure builds until the victim feels they have no time to think.

A woman lost $9,260 after scammers convinced her she had missed jury duty. They kept her on the phone while she used a Bitcoin ATM.

An 85-year-old man lost $200,000 in a fake PayPal refund scheme. The scam started with a $10,000 crypto ATM transfer.

A disabled man from Connecticut lost over $300,000 in a cryptocurrency investment scam. His story shows how scammers keep working on someone once they sense fear or trust.

These scams are dangerous because victims do not think they are sending money to a criminal. They think they are helping someone or protecting their account.

The FBI received over 13,400 complaints about cryptocurrency kiosks in 2025. The total loss was over $388 million.

Older adults are often targeted because they may have savings and are more likely to answer calls from unknown numbers.

The machine is only part of the scam. The real attack happens in the victim's head. Once fear takes over, even careful people can make a decision they would not normally make.

A father lost $4 million in a bitcoin scam.

A crypto ATM can turn cash into digital currency quickly, which is why scammers like them.

Minnesota is banning public crypto kiosks, but people can still use regulated online platforms to buy and sell cryptocurrency.

Other states may watch what happens in Minnesota and consider banning crypto kiosks as well.

Supporters of the ban say it will help prevent scams, while critics say scammers will just find another way to get money.

The best way to protect yourself is to slow down and not let fear make you act quickly.

No real police department or bank will demand payment through a crypto ATM. If someone demands crypto, hang up and contact the person or agency through a number you find yourself.

Scammers often claim a loved one is in trouble to get you to act quickly. Call the person directly and verify the story before sending any money.

Scammers may know something about you or your family because they have found information online. Consider using a data removal service to reduce how much personal information is available.

If someone tells you what to do or what to say while using a crypto kiosk, it is likely a scam.

Some crypto scams start with a fake website or download. Use strong antivirus software to protect yourself.

If someone tells you to withdraw a large amount of cash, tell your bank what is happening before you leave with the money.

If you have already sent money or shared sensitive information, consider using identity theft protection to monitor for new account fraud.

If you sent money through a crypto kiosk, report it to the police and the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Your phone holds a lot of personal information. Take steps to protect it, such as improving your privacy settings and using trusted security tools.

Minnesota's crypto ATM ban is trying to prevent scams that happen quickly because of fear.

If someone tells you to send crypto or keep it a secret, stop and verify the story before acting.

Should people still have access to crypto ATMs with stronger safeguards?

Kurt 'CyberGuy' Knutsson is a tech journalist who helps people understand technology and protect themselves from scams.

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