Scam library
Crypto ATM payment scams
Someone directs you to feed cash into a crypto ATM to settle a problem or protect your money.
What it looks like
Fictional example: Take $2,000 to the crypto kiosk near you. Scan the code I sent and stay on the phone until the deposit finishes.
Fictional example: This cash deposit will secure your savings. Call 202-555-0101 before using the machine.
How it works
A scammer walks you through withdrawing cash and putting it into a cryptocurrency kiosk. The payment goes to a wallet they control, even if they describe it as a deposit into your own protected account. The kiosk receipt does not make their story legitimate.
Warning signs
- An unexpected caller directs you to a crypto kiosk.
- They supply the wallet address or QR code.
- They tell you to hide the purpose of your withdrawal.
- They stay on the phone while you deposit cash.
If you got one of these
- Stop before inserting more cash and end the call.
- Contact the organization through a number on an existing statement.
- Tell your bank fraud line what the caller instructed you to do.
- Ask someone you trust to review the request with you.
If you already paid or shared something
- Contact the kiosk operator immediately using its independently verified contact details; ask whether payment can be stopped.
- Keep receipts, the kiosk location, wallet address, and transaction ID.
- Report at ic3.gov and to local police. Avoid anyone promising paid recovery.
Who gets targeted
Anyone pressured to make an urgent payment, including people unfamiliar with cryptocurrency.
Protect yourself: The Family Kit