Hardware

Town bans crypto kiosks after $20K scam

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April 9, 2026

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The city of Haverhill, Massachusetts, has approved a ban on cryptocurrency kiosks following reports that three residents were scammed out of a combined $20,000, according to a CBS Boston report. The decision came after testimony from victims and law enforcement.

One victim described being targeted by a scammer who falsely accused her of criminal activity and threatened arrest. The caller instructed her to withdraw cash and deposit it into a cryptocurrency kiosk at a convenience store. The woman said she felt intimidated throughout the process, including by an individual nearby, and was urged to act quickly under pressure. She ultimately deposited thousands of dollars but refused to share the transaction receipt, which scammers often use to access funds.

After reporting the incident, Haverhill police launched an investigation and were able to recover her money. Officials said such outcomes are rare. The City Council unanimously approved the ban, and at least one kiosk involved in the case has already been removed.