Lincoln's Shocking New Law: Cryptocurrency ATMs Now Face Dire Warnings – Are You Prepared?

The Lincoln Police Department (LPD) is launching a joint initiative with AARP Nebraska aimed at combating the rising threat of cryptocurrency fraud. This partnership comes on the heels of disturbing financial losses incurred by residents—over $11 million lost to cryptocurrency scams just in 2025. In response, the Lincoln City Council passed an ordinance requiring businesses with cryptocurrency ATMs to display prominent warning stickers by December 24.

The newly mandated sticker carries a clear message: “STOP: If someone told you to put money in this machine, whether they claim to be a loved one, partner, government, bank, or business, you may be getting scammed. Scammers use fear, secrecy, and urgency to trick you into sending cryptocurrency.” The sticker also advises individuals to contact the LPD if they find themselves in such a situation.

The ordinance was approved during a City Council meeting on November 17 and subsequently signed by Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird on November 24. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the tactics employed by fraudsters, particularly targeting vulnerable populations, including the elderly. Erika Thomas, public information officer for LPD, emphasized the importance of vigilance among business owners and customers alike.

“If you see someone, especially someone who's elderly, with a phone to their ear, maybe looking confused and approaching one of these machines,” Thomas cautioned, “those are telltale signs that they are likely in the midst of a scam in that moment.”

In conjunction with the sticker initiative, the LPD is also ramping up its investigative capabilities. Beginning in January, the police department will introduce a dedicated cryptocurrency investigator as part of its Technical Investigations Unit. This strategic move is designed to better equip law enforcement in addressing the complexities of digital currency fraud.

For those seeking to become more informed about cryptocurrency scams, both business owners and the general public can access valuable information through the City of Lincoln's website. The LPD has developed an acronym, “SCAM,” to help individuals remember essential steps: Stop, Check, Avoid, and Make a Report. This straightforward advice aims to empower potential victims to take proactive measures against fraud.

AARP Nebraska is not stopping at Lincoln; they are also collaborating with the Grand Island Police Department to implement similar preventive strategies. This includes the creation of a Grand Island-specific version of the warning sticker, which will be available in both English and Spanish, ensuring that a broader audience can benefit from the initiative.

The rise of cryptocurrency has brought with it a new frontier of financial possibilities but also significant risks. As scams become increasingly sophisticated, targeted efforts like those in Lincoln are more crucial than ever. By actively educating the public and implementing protective measures, local authorities aim to safeguard residents from becoming victims of these often devastating scams.

As the landscape of digital finance continues to evolve, so too must the strategies to combat fraudulent activities. Initiatives like the one undertaken by the LPD and AARP Nebraska showcase a proactive approach to tackling this pressing issue. The emphasis on community engagement, education, and targeted law enforcement efforts serves as a vital step in protecting individuals from the pitfalls of cryptocurrency fraud.