Estafa del cajero de bitcoin: cómo funciona, señales y qué hacer

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