On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, CBS2 reported that the Treasure Valley Partnership (TVP) is warning residents about a rising wave of cryptocurrency ATM scams across the Boise-area region.
According to TVP, one of the most common schemes involves callers posing as law enforcement officers. They tell victims a warrant has been issued for their arrest, then direct them to withdraw cash and feed it into a cryptocurrency ATM to settle the matter. Scammers often stay on the line during the entire transaction, using fear and urgency to discourage victims from questioning the instructions.
The financial toll has been significant. TVP said 30 Meridian residents lost a combined $1.3 million between January and July. In Eagle, Star, Kuna and unincorporated Ada County, scam losses reached roughly $486,000 in 2025. So far this year, losses in those areas have hit $406,000 through September, putting 2026 on a similar pace. Caldwell has recorded 44 cases over the past three years.
About half of identified victims are older than 60, though TVP noted that people of all ages have been targeted.
Local officials are responding. Star Mayor Trevor Chadwick adopted an ordinance banning cryptocurrency ATMs within city limits. Kuna Mayor Joe Stear is drafting an ordinance on cryptocurrency kiosks that could prohibit them citywide. He cited their repeated use in fraud and the difficulty of recovering money once it reaches a scammer’s digital wallet.
TVP said it is working with law enforcement and community leaders to counter the scam and help residents, particularly older adults, recognize warning signs before becoming victims.
Source: CBS2
Be the first to comment