TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) — The Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) is launching a new initiative aimed at combating cryptocurrency scams that have surged in recent months.
The Scam Alert program will target locations where these scams are most prevalent, including Bitcoin ATMs, gift card kiosks, and bank branches.
The initiative comes in response to the dramatic increase in the number of Bitcoin ATMs in Pima County, particularly in the Tucson area, which now boasts around 300 machines. While these ATMs provide convenient access to cryptocurrency, they have also become a frequent tool for scammers who exploit unsuspecting individuals.
According to PCSD’s Financial Crimes & Fraud Unit, scammers often coerce victims into depositing cash into Bitcoin ATMs under false pretenses, such as pretending the money is for lottery winnings, avoiding arrest for a supposed warrant, or making a supposed investment. Once deposited, the cryptocurrency transfers are typically irreversible, making it nearly impossible for victims to recover their funds.
The Scam Alert program will place highly visible warnings and contact information for law enforcement directly on the machines and within bank branches. These notices will serve as a final warning for people who are being targeted, with the hope of interrupting the scam process before any money is lost.
PCSD officials emphasized that the best way to tackle these scams is through prevention, noting that once money is transferred into cryptocurrency, it is nearly impossible to recover. The department is encouraging businesses and financial institutions with Bitcoin ATMs, gift card kiosks, or similar services to participate in the program.
Any business or organization interested in receiving Scam Alert materials for their locations can contact the PCSD Financial Crimes & Fraud Unit at fraud@sheriff.pima.gov or by calling 520-351-3000.