Bitcoin ATM / crypto kiosk scam: كيف يعمل وعلامات التحذير وماذا تفعل
Crypto · alto
The bitcoin ATM (BTM) is the payment rail for many scams: fake tech support, fake Amazon, fake bank or fake government agent. The victim is told there is a problem, their money is at risk or they are linked to money laundering, and is instructed to withdraw cash from a bank or retirement account and deposit it into a specific kiosk.
The FTC reports losses of over US$ 110 million in 2023 at these kiosks and more than US$ 65 million in just the first half of 2024. Legitimate businesses and government agencies don't ask you to use a bitcoin ATM to protect money or fix a problem.
Sinais / Signs
- Any request to deposit cash at a bitcoin ATM
- Instructions to withdraw cash after an unexpected call
- Claims you are tied to money laundering or drug smuggling
- A caller who stays on the line while you deposit
Prevenção / Prevention
- Treat every request to pay at a BTM as a scam
- Don't withdraw cash because of an unexpected call or message
- Check the problem with your bank using a number you already trust
- Agree with older relatives that no "authority" is ever paid in crypto
- Hang up and talk to someone you trust
O que fazer / What to do
- Keep the kiosk receipts and wallet address
- Contact the kiosk operator and your bank immediately
- Report it to the FTC (ReportFraud.ftc.gov) and the FBI (IC3.gov)
- Beware of anyone offering to recover the money for a fee
FAQ
Can the bank or government ask for payment in bitcoin?
No. The FTC says legitimate businesses and government agencies don't ask you to use a bitcoin ATM to protect money or fix a problem.
Can a kiosk deposit be reversed?
It is very hard, since the money goes to the scammer's wallet. Act fast with the operator and the authorities.
FTC - Scammers use Bitcoin ATMs to steal your money · FTC - New FTC Data Shows Massive Increase in Losses to Bitcoin ATM Scams