Bitcoin ATM scams explode in 2025 as Americans lose $333 million to crypto scams – are you at risk?

Bitcoin ATM scams 2025: Americans lost more than $333 million to fraudsters using bitcoin ATMs in 2025, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, highlighting a growing risk as cryptocurrency use becomes more common.

An FBI spokesperson told ABC News that fraudulent activity through crypto kiosks has shown a “clear and constant rise” that is “not slowing down.” In 2024, losses totaled about $250 million, already more than double the previous year, showing how quickly scammers are adapting to new technologies.

Bitcoin ATMs: Fast, Convenient, but Risky

There are now over 45,000 bitcoin ATMs across the US, letting users quickly deposit cash and send it to a digital wallet anywhere in the world. Experts warn that once a transaction is completed, recovering the money is extremely difficult, making these machines a favorite tool for fraudsters.


Amy Nofziger, AARP’s director of fraud victim support told ABC News that, "Requesting crypto is now the No. 1 preferred method of criminals," adding that, "It is a huge problem."

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Athena Bitcoin Faces Legal Scrutiny

In September, the Washington, D.C., attorney general’s office filed a lawsuit against Athena Bitcoin, one of the largest bitcoin ATM providers in the country. Authorities allege the company "pocketing hundreds of thousands of dollars in undisclosed fees on the backs of scam victims," as quoted by ABC News report.

According to the lawsuit, 93% of transactions on Athena’s machines in D.C. were fraudulent, and the median age of victims was 71, showing that older Americans are particularly targeted.

Athena Bitcoin has denied the claims, saying it has "strong safeguards against fraud including transparent instructions, prominent warnings and consumer education," as quoted by ABC News. Athena added that, "Just as a bank isn't held responsible if someone willingly sends funds to someone else, Athena does not control users' decisions," as quoted in the report.

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Calls for Stricter Oversight

AARP has urged lawmakers to tighten regulations on bitcoin ATMs, including limits on daily deposits. So far, at least 17 states have passed laws regulating the machines, and some municipalities have moved to ban them entirely.

FAQs

Why are Bitcoin ATMs targeted by scammers?

Transactions are fast, and once completed, it’s very hard to recover the money.



How many Bitcoin ATMs are there in the US?

There are more than 45,000 nationwide.