23 hours ago
ATMs are common—found at gas stations, stores, and even some restaurants. However, a specific type of ATM is now being banned.
Indiana is the first state in the nation to ban cryptocurrency ATMs. The reason: scammers use these crypto kiosks to receive payments from their victims. In 2025, these kiosks were involved in scams that stole $333 million nationwide.
AARP is closely monitoring how states are addressing crypto fraud. While Indiana has banned the kiosks entirely, many other states have implemented daily transaction limits and other safeguards. Currently, North Carolina is one of seven states without any regulations on cryptocurrency ATMs. However, AARP is actively working to change this.
"Hopefully, in 2027, we will see legislation passed to protect older adults from these scams. We are engaging lawmakers individually to educate them on the issue. We look forward to legislation that includes daily withdrawal limits, mandatory warning signs, and public education," said Mark Hensley, Associate State Director of Community Outreach for AARP NC, Triad Region.
Typical scam steps include:
1. Receiving a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be from the government, tech support, or a family member in trouble.
2. The caller pressures you to act immediately, warning that you could face jail time, lose money, or that your loved one will not get help.
3. The caller insists you keep it secret, withdraw cash, and deposit it into a cryptocurrency kiosk.
