FBI warns about the use of Bitcoin ATMs for scam

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation warns of a growing number of criminals using cryptocurrency ATMs and QR codes to commit fraudulent activities. Clients can use a QR code to automatically fill in the field with the address of the recipient to simplify the transfer of money.

Due to the pandemic, many companies have implemented the system of codes for payments. Attackers have used this system for their own purposes.

FBI in a Public Service Announcement notes that scammers use several schemes to embezzle victims’ money:

– they falsely identify as employees of law enforcement or government agencies, utility companies;

– they inform the victim that he or she has won the lottery, and in order to receive the prize it is necessary to pay a fee;

– they convince the victim to buy cryptocurrency through an ATM and send to the specified digital wallet using the QR code provided by the scammers.

Usually scammers are constantly in touch with the victim and give detailed instructions on how to make a transfer. The agency warns that in this case it will be very difficult to return the stolen money, since transfers in cryptocurrency are not tracked by a bank.

To prevent cases of such fraud, FBI representatives advise citizens not to transfer money to strangers, even if they say they are employees of any government services, and to contact law enforcement agencies immediately. Also, users should carefully check the money transfer address every time.

Statistically, in 2020, cryptocurrency scams globally amounted to about $ 10.5 billion. The share of criminal schemes related to embezzlement accounts for about 68% of all crimes committed.

In summer it was reported that UK will tighten the ru­les for adver­ti­sing cryp­to-as­sets.