Tell Your Elected Officials To Protect Older Adults From Scam Crimes
AARP’s Fraud Watch Network has increasingly received reports over the past few years of criminals directing victims to pay fraudulent schemes via cryptocurrencies. Criminals are stealing money using cryptocurrencies, often telling consumers to use crypto ATM machines. These machines look and operate like bank ATMs, and they allow people, including criminals, to send and receive payment in cryptocurrencies.
There are over 300 cryptocurrency ATMs in operation in Rhode Island. They can be found in gas stations, convenience stores, grocery stores, and other small shops. While they are used for legitimate purposes as well, their use in criminal scams is very concerning. FBI data shows that Rhode Islanders lost a total of $2,245,844 to cryptocurrency scams in 2023. Something must be done.
We need to pass the Cryptocurrency ATM Scam Prevention Bill.
Efforts to combat the usage of cryptocurrency in fraud are being introduced across the country. Connecticut Vermont, Minnesota, and California have passed legislation similar to the legislation introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly this session.
The Cryptocurrency ATM Scam Prevention Bill (Senate Bill 16 and House Bill 5121) is being supported by AARP Rhode Island, The Rhode Island State Police and The Office of The General Treasurer, James Diossa. This bill will implement a daily transaction limit and a scam related refund policy on all cryptocurrency ATMs here in Rhode Island. The bill would also require extensive warnings prior to a transaction and a detailed receipt at the conclusion of a transaction.
Tell lawmakers that Rhode Islanders need to be protected from criminals utilizing cryptocurrency ATMs to steal hard earned money. Tell them to pass The Cryptocurrency ATM Scam Prevention Bill.
RECIPIENTS:
- Your State Representative
- Your State Senator
