Scammers using Bitcoin ATMs stole over $333 million from Americans between January and November 2025, according to a recent report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Sharp Rise Compared to Last Year
This figure marks a significant jump from the roughly $250 million lost to similar schemes in 2024. The FBI notes that scams involving crypto kiosks are “not slowing down” and continue to intensify.
A Perfect Tool for Criminals
One of the main factors behind the surge is the speed and irreversibility of transactions carried out via Bitcoin ATMs. These kiosks allow users to deposit cash and instantly convert it into cryptocurrency, sending it directly to digital wallets—something scammers exploit with ease.
Fraudsters commonly pose as government agents or banks, pressuring victims to make urgent payments to avoid penalties or legal consequences. Once the money is deposited and transferred via the ATM, it’s nearly impossible to recover, according to the FBI.
More ATMs, More Scams
As of now, there are more than 45,000 Bitcoin ATMs installed across the United States. While these machines offer convenience to crypto users, they also present growing opportunities for criminals, who constantly evolve their techniques to appear more convincing and harder to detect.
A Clear Warning to the Public
The FBI urges the public to never send cryptocurrency through a kiosk in response to unsolicited requests, threats, or pressure tactics—regardless of whether the caller claims to be from the police, IRS, or a financial institution. Any demand for immediate payment should raise red flags.
Fast transactions, zero recourse – a deadly combo criminals have mastered.
Want to stay safe? Never send crypto based on a phone call or email that pressures you. In crypto, once it’s gone, it’s gone for good.
#bitcoin , #Cryptoscam , #FBI , #CryptoFraud , #CryptoNews
Stay one step ahead – follow our profile and stay informed about everything important in the world of cryptocurrencies!
Notice:
,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
XRP Holds $1.40 as Bitcoin Rally and ETF Inflows Lift Crypto Market
Key Insights
XRP maintained support above $1.40 as the broader market rebounded, while strong inflows into Bitcoin ETFs helped restore trading confidence.
Bitcoin surged beyond $74,000 alongside gains in major altcoins, lifting total crypto market value close to $2.45 trillion in one
CryptoFrontNews3m ago
Bitcoin mining company Cathedra Bitcoin and Sphere 3D reach a merger agreement, with combined operational capacity reaching 53 MW
Cathedra Bitcoin and Sphere 3D have reached a full stock transaction merger agreement. The new company after the merger will retain the Sphere 3D name and operate data centers in multiple states, with plans to expand operational capabilities and develop AI and high-performance computing services.
GateNews3m ago
New Yorkers can pay their mortgage with Bitcoin
New York City residents can now pay their mortgages using Bitcoin through the Strike platform, which has obtained the necessary licenses. This system streamlines transactions, lowers fees, and reduces the risks associated with price volatility, representing a major step forward in the integration of cryptocurrency into the real estate industry.
TapChiBitcoin40m ago
Price Predictions 3/6: BTC,ETH,BNB,XRP,SOL,DOGE,ADA,BCH,HYPE,XMR
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) faced a renewed test after a brief relief rally, sliding back below the $68,500 mark as sellers reasserted control. The move comes after the asset briefly flirted with the $74,000 threshold, a level that previously functioned as a ceiling during the latest ascent. Traders now e
CryptoBreaking44m ago
Strategy Disclosure of Top 10 Asset Management Companies' Holdings: Vanguard holds 8.12%, ranking first
MicroStrategy, a Bitcoin treasury company, disclosed the holdings of the top ten asset management companies worldwide. Vanguard Group has the largest stake at 8.12%, with a market value of over $3.1 billion. Other major shareholders include Capital Research and BlackRock.
GateNews1h ago
Bitcoin May Be Quiet Now but Institutional Flows Suggest a Bigger Move Ahead
Institutional investors are holding firm through bitcoin’s latest market dip, signaling deeper conviction as ETF inflows, new buyers, and geopolitical tensions reinforce the cryptocurrency’s growing role as a potential safe-haven asset.
Why Institutional Investors Aren’t Dumping Bitcoin During the
Coinpedia1h ago
