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Attorney General Mayes Helps Nearly Three Dozen Crypto ATM Scam Victims Recover Full Refunds, Warns Arizonans About Crypto ATM Fraud

Press Release - Attorney General Kris Mayes

Attorney General’s Office recovers nearly $175k in fraudulent transactions for 35 Victims

 

PHOENIX – Attorney General Mayes announced today that since Arizona's Cryptocurrency Kiosk License Fraud Prevention law took effect last September, the Attorney General's Office has helped 35 victims of cryptocurrency ATM scams obtain full refunds totaling $171,332. The Attorney General is renewing her call for Arizonans to act quickly — the law requires victims to report fraudulent transactions within 30 days in order to qualify for a refund.

“My office is happy to help any victim of crypto ATM fraud receive a refund they are entitled to under Arizona law,” said Attorney General Mayes. “Knowing the signs of crypto ATM fraud can help protect you and your loved ones, but if you have fallen victim to this scam, contact my office right away. We are here to help.”

How the Refund Process Works
 
Under the law, which took effect September 26, 2025, cryptocurrency kiosk and ATM operators are required to issue full refunds — including all fees — to customers who report they were victims of fraud within 30 days of the transaction. To qualify, victims must report the fraudulent transaction to the Arizona Attorney General's Office or local law enforcement within that 30-day window.


The Attorney General's Office urges anyone who believes they made a cryptocurrency ATM transaction because of a scam to act immediately:

  • Report it right away. File a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General's Office or contact local law enforcement as soon as possible — waiting even a few days could mean missing the 30-day deadline to qualify for a refund.
  • Keep your receipt. The law requires kiosk operators to provide transaction receipts; hold on to yours as proof of the transaction.
  • Provide as much detail as possible. Be ready to share the date, time, location, and amount of the transaction, along with any information about how the scam occurred.
  • Don't be embarrassed to come forward. Scammers are sophisticated and specifically target people under pressure. Reporting quickly is the best way to get your money back.

Background
 
The Cryptocurrency Kiosk License Fraud Prevention law also lowered daily transaction limits, added new on-screen warnings that customers must acknowledge before completing a transaction, and required kiosk operators to issue transaction receipts.
 
The Attorney General offers the following reminders to help Arizonans avoid becoming a victim in the first place:

  • Only scammers demand payment in cryptocurrency. No legitimate business or government agency will ever ask you to pay or "protect your money" using bitcoin.
  • Verify independently. Hang up and call the organization directly using a number you look up yourself — never one provided by the caller.
  • Consult someone you trust. Talk to a family member or friend before making any significant financial decision involving cryptocurrency.
  • Report suspicious activity immediately. If something feels off, report it to local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General's Office right away.
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