FBI Issues Urgent Warning
Seniors Targeted in 333 Million Bitcoin ATM Scam Surge
Austin, TX. If you have seen all the Bitcoin or cryptocurrency ATMs popping up in stores and malls, you need to know about a serious warning from the FBI that directly affects seniors across America.
The Shocking Numbers Behind This Growing Threat
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has issued an urgent alert about a dramatic increase in scams involving Bitcoin ATMs, with American victims losing more than 333 million dollars in 2025 alone. This alarming trend shows no signs of slowing down as we move into 2026, making it crucial for seniors and their families to understand how these scams work.
What Are Bitcoin ATMs and Why Are They Dangerous?
Unlike regular ATMs where you withdraw cash from your bank account, Bitcoin ATMs allow people to buy cryptocurrency (digital money) with cash. Scammers have discovered these machines are perfect for their schemes because once money is converted to Bitcoin, it is nearly impossible to trace or recover.
The FBI reports that losses from Bitcoin ATM fraud in the United States exceeded 333 million dollars in the past year. This is a significant jump from the 250 million dollars reported in 2024. These machines have become a favorite tool for criminals because they offer fast, convenient transactions that leave victims with no way to get their money back when things go wrong.
How These Scams Typically Target Seniors
Phone calls pretending to be from the IRS, Social Security, or a grandchild in trouble.
Email messages claiming there is an issue with your account or benefits.
Text messages about prizes, refunds, or urgent problems that need immediate payment.
Online dating sites where new romantic interests ask for financial help.
Scammers often contact seniors through:
Once they gain your trust, they will insist you pay using Bitcoin ATMs, telling you it is the only secure way to handle the situation. They might even stay on the phone with you while you visit a Bitcoin ATM location, guiding you through the process step by step.
FBI Warning Signs to Watch For:
The FBI warns that Bitcoin ATM scams skyrocketed in 2025. Here are red flags that should immediately raise your suspicion:
Anyone demanding payment in cryptocurrency. Legitimate organizations never require payment in Bitcoin or other digital currencies.
Pressure to act immediately. Scammers create urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly or consulting family.
Requests to visit Bitcoin ATMs. These machines are located in convenience stores, malls, and other public places.
Instructions to keep the transaction secret. Real companies never ask you to hide payments from family members.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Hang up immediately or delete the message.
Never share personal information or financial details.
Verify the request independently by calling the official phone number for that organization.
Talk to a trusted family member before taking any action.
Report suspicious activity to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.
If you receive a call, text, or email asking for money through a Bitcoin ATM:
Help Is Available When You Need It Most
At Phone Safety Coach, we understand how confusing and frightening these scams can be. Our patient, one-on-one coaching sessions are designed specifically for seniors who want to stay safe from phone scams and fraud. We offer specialized Emergency Scam Response Sessions for situations where something just happened and you need immediate help. Our coaches can help you figure out what happened, secure your accounts, and create an immediate safety plan. We can also provide comprehensive Scam Recovery Packages for cases where money or sensitive information may have been compromised.
All our sessions are conducted in plain language with no confusing technical terms. We provide clear, patient guidance at your pace. Don't Wait Until It Is Too Late.
The FBI report of 333 million dollars in Bitcoin ATM losses should serve as a wake-up call for all seniors and their families. Prevention is always easier than recovery when it comes to protecting your hard-earned money and personal information.
Ready to take control of your phone safety? Visit us at phonesafetycoach.com to learn about our prevention packages and emergency scam response services. We offer both in-home visits throughout the Austin metro area and sessions at neutral locations like libraries and community centers.
Your safety matters. Let us help you stay protected from today's most dangerous scams.
Sources and References: FBI reports 333M lost from crypto ATM scams in 2025 https://www.atmmarketplace.com/news/fbi-reports-333m-lost-from-crypto-atm-scams-in-2025/
Scammers notched 333 million from bitcoin ATM scams in 2025, FBI says
FBI releases annual internet crime report data for 2025
https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases/fbi-releases-annual-internet-crime-report
New FTC data shows massive increase in losses to Bitcoin ATM scams
Helping Austin seniors Stay Safe from Phone Scams
Quick Links
Stay Connected
Get a free guide! Subscribe to our newsletter for scam, alerts, and tips.
Contact Us: