Massachusetts Senate Moves to Ban Bitcoin ATMs Amid Scam Concerns
The Massachusetts Senate has taken a significant step towards banning Bitcoin ATMs in the state. On Wednesday, senators passed an amendment to the economic development bill that would outlaw the machines. The move comes as a response to growing concerns about the prevalence of scams associated with crypto ATMs.
According to figures from the FBI, Massachusetts residents have lost over $6 million to crypto ATM fraud in 2025 alone. This has led to increased scrutiny and calls for regulation. Bitcoin Depot, one of the largest crypto ATM operators in Massachusetts, filed for bankruptcy in May following a lawsuit from Attorney General Andrea Campbell.
Some cities and towns in Massachusetts have already taken steps to ban Bitcoin ATMs on their own accord, with Gloucester and Waltham being two notable examples. However, other machines remain operational, pending the outcome of this legislation.