Minnesota Shuts Down Crypto Kiosks After $1 Million in Scam Losses

Minnesota's ban on cryptocurrency kiosks took effect on Saturday, August 1st. The state government claims that these machines have been used by scammers to swindle nearly $1 million from Minnesotans.

Between 2023 and 2025, the Minnesota Department of Commerce investigated 134 complaints involving crypto kiosks. According to officials, transactions made on these machines often lead overseas, making it difficult for law enforcement to track down scammers.

The ban was backed by local law enforcement, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the American Association of Retired Persons, among others.

Despite some operators claiming to hold 'high standards of compliance and transparency', officials warn that there is no safe crypto kiosk. They advise consumers to be cautious of pressure to act immediately and secretively, as well as being told not to trust family or friends with their financial information.