Easthampton Joins Fight Against Cryptocurrency Scams with Kiosk Ban

Easthampton has become the second community in Hampshire County to ban cryptocurrency kiosks, joining South Hadley in its effort to protect residents from scams. The Easthampton City Council unanimously passed an ordinance at its September 16 meeting, prohibiting the machines that scammers use to steal from victims.

The request for the ordinance was submitted by City Council President Koni Denham and Vice President Felicia Jadczak, citing the need to address the rise in crypto fraud targeting seniors and vulnerable populations. Easthampton Police Lt. Eric Alexander and Detective Michael Briggs spoke at the meeting, detailing instances of scams that have taken place in the city.

The ordinance change will be enforced by Easthampton Police, who estimate there are four cryptocurrency kiosks currently operating in the city. The machines can charge user fees as high as 50% of the deposit or withdrawal, and it is 'nearly impossible' to recover lost funds once deposited into one of these ATMs.