AARP West Virginia Leads Charge for Legislation to Combat Surging Cryptocurrency and Real Estate Scams

Charleston, W.Va. – AARP West Virginia is intensifying its advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session, calling on state lawmakers to enact robust protections against cryptocurrency ATM fraud and real estate scams that threaten the financial security of older residents.[1][2]

At a press conference held Thursday at the State Capitol, AARP West Virginia State Director Gaylene Miller highlighted the escalating dangers posed by these scams, particularly to seniors. “Cryptocurrency kiosks are becoming a favorite tool for criminals to steal millions of dollars from older West Virginians,” Miller stated, noting that these machines, often resembling ordinary bank ATMs, are commonly found in grocery stores, gas stations, laundromats, and convenience stores.[1][4]

Rising Threat of Crypto Kiosks and Deed Fraud

The push comes amid alarming statistics on fraud losses in the state. In 2024 alone, West Virginians lost more than $7.6 million to cryptocurrency scams, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).[2] Scammers frequently direct victims to these kiosks to convert cash into cryptocurrency under false pretenses, such as resolving fabricated emergencies. Transactions at these machines often carry steep fees ranging from 5% to 15%.[4]

Real estate fraud, including deed fraud where criminals forge property documents or impersonate owners, poses another severe risk. Such schemes can lead to devastating financial losses and emotional distress, eroding generational wealth and destabilizing communities.[2]

AARP’s 2026 state advocacy agenda explicitly prioritizes these issues, alongside support for caregivers, financial security enhancements, and broadband expansion. The organization, representing a quarter-million older West Virginians, aims to make the state a leader in consumer protection through legislation, enforcement, and education.[2][7]

Strong Public Support Backed by Surveys

Public sentiment strongly aligns with AARP’s call to action. A November 2025 AARP survey of 1,009 West Virginia registered voters revealed overwhelming support for protections against cryptocurrency kiosk fraud (79% to 89% backing specific measures) and real estate scams (75% to 91% support).[3] Additionally, 85% of voters indicated they are more likely to support candidates advocating for stronger anti-fraud measures.[3]

Separate polling of AARP members showed that 84% want the legislature to strengthen laws combating frauds and scams, underscoring the issue’s prominence among those over 50.[7] “West Virginia voters want lawmakers to implement better protections for fraud and scams in the Mountain State, including cryptocurrency ATM and real estate fraud,” said Roger Calhoun, president of AARP West Virginia.[4]

The survey methodology included landline and cell phone interviews with live interviewers and text-to-web data collection, weighted to reflect the state’s voter population.[3]

Legislative Momentum and Specific Bills

Several bills are advancing that align with AARP’s priorities. Legislation to regulate cryptocurrency kiosks is slated for introduction this week, following the model of 17 other states that have already passed similar measures.[1][4] Miller emphasized the urgency: “It is critical that the legislature address this issue this session by bringing some common sense solutions to protect consumers from crypto fraud.”[4]

Other fraud-related bills highlighted include:

• House Bill 4461: Addresses high-speed internet service provider charges during power outages.[4]
• House Bill 4493: Targets real property wholesaling practices where contracts are transferred to third parties without taking legal title.[4]
• House Bill 4990: Focuses on preventing gift card fraud.[4]

Delegates from both parties, including Del. Rick Garcia (D-Marion), Del. Bob Fehrenbacher (R-Wood), Del. Patrick Lucas (R-Cabell), and Del. Eric Brooks (R-Raleigh), joined Miller at the press conference, signaling bipartisan interest.[5]

AARP’s Broader Advocacy Agenda

Beyond fraud prevention, AARP West Virginia is advocating for a state caregiver tax credit to offset the average $7,200 in annual out-of-pocket expenses for unpaid caregivers. An internal questionnaire revealed that 80% of members have served as or know unpaid caregivers, with nearly 70% having spent their own money on care. Support for the tax credit stands at 86%.[7]

Other priorities include preserving retirement benefits for public-sector employees (72% support) and investing in high-speed internet expansion (nearly two-thirds favor).[7] “We look forward to working closely with lawmakers throughout the 60-day session to ensure the voices and concerns of 50-plus West Virginians and their families are heard at the State Capitol,” Miller added.[7]

National Context and Path Forward

The West Virginia effort mirrors a national trend, as scams involving cryptocurrency kiosks and real estate rise across the U.S. AARP’s longstanding fight against fraud includes advocacy, education, and outreach tailored to vulnerable older adults.[2]

As the legislative session progresses, AARP volunteers, recognizable in their bright red attire, will continue lobbying at the Capitol. Their goal: Ensure no West Virginian loses their home or life savings to criminals.[2][4]

With strong voter backing and targeted bills on the docket, the coming weeks could mark significant strides in safeguarding consumers from these pervasive threats.

This article draws on reports from WV News, AARP state pages, WV MetroNews, and News & Sentinel, reflecting developments as of February 6, 2026.