FBI Reveals $333 Million Stolen in Crypto ATM Scams During 2025: A Surging Threat to Vulnerable Americans
Scammers defrauded Americans out of more than $333 million through cryptocurrency ATM scams in 2025, marking a significant escalation from the previous year, according to the latest FBI data.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation reported this staggering figure on December 30, 2025, highlighting a “clear and constant rise” in these frauds that shows no signs of abating. Losses from crypto ATM scams reached $114 million in 2023 before nearly doubling to $247 million in 2024, and now stand at over $333 million for 2025—a trend that has prompted urgent regulatory responses across the U.S.[1][2]
How Crypto ATM Scams Operate
Cryptocurrency ATMs, often found in convenience stores, gas stations, and other public locations, allow users to convert cash into digital assets like Bitcoin. Scammers exploit these machines by tricking victims—frequently elderly individuals—into depositing cash under false pretenses. Common tactics include urgent phone calls from supposed tech support, government officials, or family members in distress, directing victims to “secure” funds by buying cryptocurrency via ATMs.
Once deposited, transactions are irreversible, making recovery nearly impossible. The FBI notes that scammers favor these ATMs for their speed and finality, with median victim ages around 71 years old in high-profile cases.[2]
Regulatory Crackdowns and Local Actions
In response to the surge, multiple jurisdictions have taken decisive steps. St. Paul, Minnesota, voted to outright ban crypto ATMs, while Lincoln, Nebraska, mandates fraud warning signs at all such machines.[1]
Legal actions against operators are intensifying. The Washington, D.C. Attorney General sued Athena Bitcoin, alleging the company profited from fraud through undisclosed fees. The lawsuit claims 93% of transactions on its ATMs stemmed from scams.[2] Athena Bitcoin defended itself, stating it has “strong safeguards against fraud, including transparent instructions, prominent warnings, and customer education.” A company representative added that, like banks, it cannot control users’ decisions to send funds.[1][2]
Earlier in 2025, a dramatic incident unfolded when a sheriff’s office in one locality used a power tool to extract nearly $32,000 from a Bitcoin Depot ATM after securing a warrant. The victim, scammed out of the funds, faces a lengthy legal process to recover the money, while the company threatened to seek damages for the $14,000 machine.[2]
Victim Profiles and Broader Impact
The scams disproportionately target seniors, preying on their trust and urgency. As cryptocurrency gains mainstream traction, fraudsters have adapted, using ATMs as a low-barrier entry for laundering ill-gotten gains. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) data underscores the crisis, with crypto-related complaints forming a growing slice of overall cyber fraud reports.
“This is a clear and constant rise in scams that is not slowing down.”
FBI spokesperson to ABC News[1][2]
Expert Warnings and Prevention Tips
Financial watchdogs urge caution: Never send cryptocurrency to unsolicited contacts, verify requests through trusted channels, and report suspicious activity immediately to the FTC or local authorities. Crypto ATM operators face mounting pressure to enhance verification, such as ID checks and transaction limits, though enforcement varies by state.
| Year | Reported Losses | Increase from Prior Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $114 million | Baseline |
| 2024 | $247 million | ~116% |
| 2025 | $333+ million | ~35% |
Industry and Government Response
The crypto industry insists on user responsibility, but critics argue lax oversight enables abuse. With Bitcoin and other assets hitting new highs amid regulatory shifts under the new administration, 2026 could see intensified scrutiny. Lawmakers are debating national standards for crypto ATMs, potentially including mandatory KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols.
Consumer advocates call for public education campaigns, emphasizing that “if it sounds too urgent to be true, it probably is.” The FBI encourages victims to file reports via IC3, aiding in pattern recognition and prosecutions.
Looking Ahead
As digital finance evolves, the $333 million toll serves as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities in emerging tech. While blockchain’s promise of decentralization appeals to innovators, its anonymity fuels criminals. Balancing innovation with protection remains a key challenge for policymakers, businesses, and consumers alike.
This report draws from FBI disclosures and multiple investigations, painting a picture of a scam epidemic demanding swift action. Victims and watchdogs alike await stronger safeguards in the year ahead.