Avoid scams

Check before you send money

Signs it's a scam

• Someone stays on the phone

  They rush you, or tell you what to press while you're at the machine.

• You were given a QR code

  Someone else's wallet address means the money goes to them, and it can't be reversed.

• It's to “protect” your money

  Or to pay a fine, a utility bill, or bail for family. Real agencies never take bitcoin.

What scammers say

“You owe the IRS / there's a warrant for your arrest.”

Government agencies never ask for payment by bitcoin ATM, gift card or wire.

“Your bank account was hacked; move your money to keep it safe.”

Your bank will never ask you to withdraw cash and put it into a crypto machine.

“Your computer has a virus” (a pop-up with a phone number).

Tech companies don't call you or ask for payment to fix a computer.

“Grandma, I'm in jail and need bail.”

Hang up and call your family member on a number you already have.

Someone you met online needs money, or has an investment that can't lose.

Romance and investment scams often build trust for weeks before asking.

“Your power will be shut off in one hour.”

Utilities don't take bitcoin. Call the number on your bill.

If you already paid

1. Stop sending money and stop talking to whoever asked for it.
2. Call the machine's operator right away (the number is on the machine and the receipt). They can sometimes stop a transaction if you act fast.
3. Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and to the FBI at ic3.gov.
4. Keep the receipt, the wallet address and any messages.
5. Tell your bank and local police. Nobody can “recover” your money for a fee: that's a scam too.

If an older person you know suddenly starts using bitcoin ATMs, talk with them. Scammers often tell victims to keep it secret.