Cryptocurrency ATM Scams Drive $2 Million Fraud Surge in Peachtree City
Peachtree City, GA — Local authorities are sounding the alarm as cryptocurrency ATMs have become the leading source of fraud in Peachtree City, Georgia, causing residents losses exceeding $2 million since the beginning of 2025.
According to Peachtree City Police, scams involving Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency ATMs have surged dramatically over the past eight months. These machines, while designed to facilitate cryptocurrency transactions conveniently, have been exploited by fraudsters who manipulate victims into depositing money into these ATMs under false pretenses.
Sgt. Brad Millstein of the Peachtree City Police Department warned the public, stating, “If anybody calls you for whatever reason and asks you to place your money into a crypto ATM, or a Bitcoin ATM, it is a scam.” He emphasized that these scams are not confined to Peachtree City but are part of a nationwide pattern targeting vulnerable individuals.
Modus Operandi of the Scams
The police described multiple tactics used by con artists, including convincing victims over phone calls that their bank accounts have been hacked or implicated in illegal activity. Victims, often elderly, are pressured into transferring funds or purchasing cryptocurrency at ATMs to supposedly protect their assets.
One notable case involved a Peachtree City couple in their 80s who lost $835,000 after receiving pop-up warnings on their computer followed by fraudulent phone calls. The scammers instilled fear by claiming the couple faced arrest if they did not comply, ultimately coercing them into using multiple Bitcoin ATMs to transfer the money.
Impact on Communities and Prevention Measures
The $2 million fraud figure represents just Peachtree City’s losses, but police warn the issue is widespread, affecting multiple communities throughout the United States.
Authorities urge local business owners hosting cryptocurrency ATMs to monitor activity closely, particularly watching for suspicious behavior such as large deposits by elderly patrons. They also advise the public to be skeptical of unsolicited calls or messages requesting cryptocurrency transactions and discourage contacting any phone numbers displayed in suspicious pop-ups or emails.
Additional safety tips include turning off devices immediately upon receiving unexpected hacking alerts on screen and never wiring money or purchasing cryptocurrency based on pressure from unknown callers.
Continued Vigilance Necessary
As cryptocurrency ATMs gain popularity, scammers are increasingly exploiting this technology for financial fraud. The Peachtree City Police continue to work on educating the public and encouraging reporting of suspicious ATM transactions.
Residents are reminded to stay alert, verify sources independently, and consult with trusted individuals before making any cryptocurrency transactions advised over the phone or online.