Scammers Take Over Crypto ATMs in Tasmania: Top 15 Users Lost Millions

Tasmania is facing a serious warning about the growing wave of scams linked to cryptocurrency ATMs. Police have found that all 15 of the most frequent users of these machines have fallen victim to fraud — without a single exception.

💸 Losses Exceed $2.5 Million Investigators revealed that these 15 individuals lost more than AUD 2.5 million in total, with around AUD 900,000 deposited directly through crypto ATMs. Police identified no legitimate use of these machines among the state’s biggest users. Since 2021, the number of crypto ATMs in Tasmania has surged from one to twenty. This rapid expansion brought not only convenience but also opened the door to criminal abuse, with international scam networks now actively manipulating and intimidating their victims.

🎯 Scammer Tactics: From Romance to Fake Government Warnings Scammers use a variety of schemes — romantic scams, fake investments, impersonations of government officials, and tech support scams. In some cases, victims were forced to deposit cash into crypto ATMs after banks blocked suspicious transfers. “People are losing their savings, selling off assets, postponing retirement. These are tragic stories that have long-term effects on families and the broader Tasmanian economy,” warned Detective Sergeant Paul Turner.

🌏 Global Expansion Continues Despite Rising Risks Globally, the number of crypto ATMs continues to grow — more than 1,000 new machines were installed in the first half of this year. The highest concentration is in the U.S., Australia, and Canada, where rapid growth is accompanied by tighter regulations. Australia has recently introduced a $5,000 transaction limit for ATM deposits and withdrawals, stricter customer checks, and mandatory fraud warnings. Still, Australians have lost over $3 million to crypto ATM scams in 2025 alone — with nearly half of the victims aged over 51.

🚨 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore Police emphasize that anyone asked by a stranger to deposit cash should be extremely cautious. Promises of guaranteed returns, urgency, and pressure are all red flags. Seniors living alone are especially vulnerable — some romantic scams have led to losses exceeding $400,000.

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