The FBI released a supplement to its annual Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) study, revealing that U.S. residents lost $388 million via cryptocurrency kiosks (ATMs) in 2025. The IC3 received over 13,400 complaints, a 23% increase from 2024, with losses surging 58%. More than half involved individuals over 50, accounting for $302 million in losses. Criminals direct victims to withdraw cash and send it through these kiosks, often as part of fake investment, tech support, or romance scams, many run by Chinese gangs from Southeast Asia. The report highlights state-level data, with Texas leading at $57 million in losses (1,179 complaints), followed by Florida ($32.7 million), California and Illinois (both over $20 million). The machines are typically located in gas stations, grocery stores, and malls. Lawsuits by Massachusetts, Iowa, and Washington, D.C., allege kiosk operators profit from scams. New Zealand has banned crypto ATMs, and Australia introduced legislation with spending limits. Several U.S. states, including Tennessee and Indiana, have also prohibited or restricted the technology.

Key facts

• $388 million lost via crypto kiosks in 2025, a 58% increase from 2024.
• 13,400+ complaints filed; over half involve victims aged 50+.
• Texas reported highest losses at $57 million; Florida second with $32.7 million.
• Scams include fake investments, tech support, and romance schemes run by Chinese gangs.
• Multiple U.S. states and countries have banned or restricted crypto ATMs.

KeyAudit data perspective