In response to a surge in cryptocurrency scams causing substantial financial losses, San Antonio has introduced a new ordinance mandating warning signs on Bitcoin ATMs throughout the city. Authorities aim to halt victims who are pressured to make immediate payments via these kiosks after receiving threatening calls impersonating officials.
The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) highlighted that scammers have targeted residents with calls claiming to be from police, courts, utility companies, or government agencies. These callers urge victims to quickly deposit cash into Bitcoin ATMs under threats of arrest, fines, or service disconnection, often insisting the victim remain on the phone to prevent second opinions or verification. Between January 2024 and April 2026, local data showed more than 660 reports connected to such scams, resulting in nearly $39 million in losses.
Older adults represent a significant portion of those affected, with approximately 38% of identified victims aged 66 or older. While most losses were under $50,000, a few cases involved amounts exceeding $1 million. San Antonio’s response includes placing large, color-coded bilingual signs in English and Spanish at Bitcoin kiosks, designed to inform users that legitimate agencies never demand payment through these machines.
The city houses 193 registered crypto kiosk locations, more than other Texas cities like Dallas or Austin, making it a critical point for intervention. The signage must be clearly visible to anyone standing before the machine, using prominent 18-point type to capture attention just before a transaction is completed. SAPD will oversee enforcement and distribution of these warnings, with businesses facing fines if they fail to comply.
Experts emphasize the irreversibility of cryptocurrency transactions once completed, as funds move swiftly and are difficult to recover, especially when transferred to overseas wallets or exchanges. Fraud risk remains a key concern amid cryptocurrency’s growing adoption across various sectors, including clean energy initiatives. The police reiterate that no genuine government or utility entity requests payment through Bitcoin ATMs, without exception.