Dennis moves to ban crypto ATMs over fraud concerns
The town of Dennis, Massachusetts, is poised to become the first on Cape Cod to ban cryptocurrency ATMs, citing concerns over financial fraud and scams. A proposed bylaw, to be voted on at a special town meeting on October 6, 2026, would require the removal of existing crypto ATMs and impose a $300 daily fine for violators. The town’s Select Board, led by Chair Carlyn Carey, highlighted the ATMs' role in facilitating fraud, particularly against older residents.
The bylaw prohibits the installation, operation, or maintenance of crypto ATMs within town limits, with existing devices needing removal within 60 days of its passage. Dennis Police alerted the Select Board to scams involving these machines, prompting the proactive measure. The town aims to address what it sees as a public safety risk, especially given the irreversible nature of cryptocurrency transactions and the challenges in recovering funds.
Statewide, the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has approved similar bans in 19 other towns and is suing one operator, Bitcoin Depot Inc., for alleged deceptive practices. While state legislation is pending, Dennis officials chose not to wait, citing limited local police resources to combat crypto-related crimes.
The special town meeting will also address other issues, including a $2.8 million Community Preservation Act-funded project to develop Port Side Community Park and a $5.5 million borrowing proposal for the Sesuit Harbor West design and construction project.