Scam library · Investment & crypto · Phone calls · Seniors
Bitcoin ATM scam
A caller says your bank account was hacked, or there's a warrant for your arrest, or your computer is infected. To protect your money, you need to withdraw cash and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM at a gas station, using a QR code they send you.
No real bank, government agency or business will ever ask you to do this. Anyone who does is a scammer.
What the message looks like
From: Caller claiming to be your bank's fraud department
Your account has been compromised. To keep your savings safe, withdraw it in cash and deposit it at a Bitcoin machine. I'll send you a secure QR code.
Don't tell the bank teller what it's for. They might be involved.
How this scam works
Bitcoin ATMs (also called crypto kiosks) turn cash into cryptocurrency and send it to a wallet. The QR code you scan belongs to the scammer. Once sent, it's nearly impossible to get back.
The FTC has warned that Bitcoin ATMs have become a payment portal for scammers, and that older adults are much more likely to report losses through them. Scammers often stay on the phone the whole time, coaching victims to lie to bank tellers about why they're withdrawing cash.
Many states have passed limits on Bitcoin ATM transactions, but the scams continue.
If someone you love is about to go to a crypto kiosk because of a phone call, the most helpful thing you can do is interrupt the call. Scammers rely on keeping victims on the line and isolated. A trusted voice saying 'let's hang up and call the bank together' often breaks the spell.
Red flags
- Anyone telling you to pay with a Bitcoin ATM.
- A QR code sent to you to scan at the machine.
- Instructions to lie to the bank teller.
- Staying on the phone while you withdraw and deposit cash.
- Claims of hacked accounts, warrants or computer problems.
How to tell it’s fake
- Hang up and call your bank using the number on your card.
- Talk to someone you trust before moving any money.
- Remember that no legitimate organization asks for payment through a crypto kiosk.
What to do if you clicked, paid or shared info
Don’t panic, and don’t blame yourself. These scams are built by professionals. Act quickly, one step at a time.
If you clicked a link or called back
- Hang up. Don't go to the ATM.
If you paid
- Report it right away to the Bitcoin ATM operator (the number is on the machine), the FBI at ic3.gov and the FTC. Keep receipts.
If you shared personal info, a password or a code
- If you shared your banking login or let someone access your computer, call your bank and get your device checked.
Where to report and get help (U.S.)
If a message seems legit and you’re still not sure, get a second opinion before you act. Reporting helps stop scammers, even if money can’t be recovered. If you are in danger, call 911.
- Your bank or card issuer
Call the number on the back of your card or on your statement, not one from the message. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment and to watch the account. - Federal Trade Commission (FTC) · ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Report the scam and get a step-by-step recovery plan. - FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) · ic3.gov
Report scams that happened online, especially if money was lost. Include phone numbers, websites and payment details. - AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline · aarp.org helpline
Free, for anyone of any age: trained volunteers help you sort out next steps. 877-908-3360, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern. - IdentityTheft.gov · IdentityTheft.gov
If you shared your Social Security number or someone opened accounts in your name.
How Gmork Scam Guard would warn you
Scam Guard runs in Chrome and Edge on your computer, so it can't hear phone calls. Many Bitcoin ATM scams start with a fake pop-up or email, and that's where Scam Guard warns you before you call the number. If someone seems legit and asks for crypto, stop and get a scam expert's opinion.
Scam Guard can miss things, so the checks above still matter. See what it warns about and what it keeps private.
Questions people ask
- Can I get money back from a Bitcoin ATM?
- It's very hard. Report it quickly to the ATM operator, the FBI and the FTC.
- Would my bank ask me to use a Bitcoin ATM?
- Never. No bank or government agency asks for payment this way.
- Why did they tell me to lie to the teller?
- Because the teller would likely recognize the scam and stop it.