Lincoln Police and AARP Nebraska Launch Aggressive Campaign Against Surging Crypto ATM Scams

By Perplexity News Staff | Lincoln, Nebraska

December 16, 2025

In a united front against the rising tide of cryptocurrency scams, the Lincoln Police Department (LPD) and AARP Nebraska have rolled out warning stickers on crypto ATMs across the city, marking a key escalation in their efforts to protect vulnerable residents, particularly seniors.[1]

Local Ordinance Paves the Way for Action

The initiative builds on a new city ordinance unanimously passed by the Lincoln City Council in November 2025. Proposed by Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird in October, the measure—now codified in Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 9.70—defines cryptocurrency and crypto ATMs while mandating prominent warning signs provided by LPD. These signs alert users to the high risk of fraud associated with the machines.[1][2]

“Cryptocurrency scams may be prevalent, but falling prey to them is preventable,” Mayor Gaylor Baird stated during the ordinance’s announcement, emphasizing collaboration with Aging Partners and AARP Nebraska to safeguard seniors.[2]

Approximately 40 crypto kiosks dot Lincoln’s landscape, often resembling standard bank ATMs in supermarkets, gas stations, and convenience stores. Unlike traditional ATMs, these machines facilitate irreversible digital wallet transfers, making them prime tools for scammers employing tactics like romance schemes, investment frauds, and government impersonations.[1][3]

Alarming Surge in Scam Reports and Losses

LPD data reveals fraud cases involving cryptocurrency have more than doubled since tracking began in 2021. Nationally, the FBI reported $124.3 million in losses from crypto kiosks in 2024 alone, with 86%—or $107.2 million—attributed to victims aged 60 and older.[2]

In Nebraska, 239 digital currency scam complaints surfaced in 2023, resulting in about $14.6 million in losses. The problem has intensified with 45,000 crypto ATMs nationwide, 200 statewide, and around 40 in Lincoln, creating more opportunities for fraud.[3][5]

Hands-On Enforcement and Education

December 2025 saw LPD partnering with AARP Nebraska volunteers to physically place warning stickers on local crypto ATMs and educate the public. This mirrors successful efforts in Omaha, where AARP’s “Fraud Fighters”—trained volunteers—ensured compliance with a similar ordinance, leading to a 20% drop in scam reports, according to Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson.[1][4]

AARP Nebraska State Director Todd Stubbendieck highlighted the collaborative spirit: “Our partners at AARP have been instrumental in advocating for safeguards that protect our seniors and clamp down on cryptocurrency ATM fraud.”[1][5]

Boosted Investigations and Statewide Support

LPD’s Technical Investigations Unit, currently comprising one sergeant and four investigators, focuses on crypto scams. A fifth investigator dedicated solely to these cases joins in January 2026, aiming to prevent victimization and curb financial losses.[1]

Complementing local action is Nebraska’s Controllable Electronic Record Fraud Prevention Act (LB 609), signed by Governor Jim Pillen in March 2025. Endorsed by AARP and sponsored by Senator Eliot Bostar, the law mandates kiosk licensure, daily transaction limits, fee caps, transaction receipts, and refunds for fraud victims.[1][2][3][4]

The Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance now regulates these machines, filling previous gaps that left them underprotected compared to banks.[1]

Broader Context and National Trends

This push aligns with national campaigns, including the FBI’s 2024 awareness drive and alerts from Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers. In Douglas County, a scam tips hotline was launched amid rising fraud.[2]

AARP’s statewide momentum extends to Grand Island, with local ordinances modeled after Omaha’s proving effective. Retailers like one Omaha business owner, Ronnie S., have even opted to remove kiosks after witnessing foiled scams.[4]

“Reports of people being scammed at ATM crypto kiosks has dropped 20% in Douglas County, and we owe a lot of that to AARP Nebraska.”
— Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson[4]

Resources for Protection

Residents can turn to LPD’s scam resources, the National Elder Fraud Hotline, FBI, FTC, and Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance for guidance. Spotting scams early remains key: criminals target kiosks for their irreversibility, but warnings and regulations are turning the tide.[1]

As Lincoln’s campaign gains steam, officials stress community vigilance. With bolstered enforcement, dedicated investigators, and volunteer efforts, the city is positioning itself as a leader in combating crypto fraud.[1][2]

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