According to data from Coin ATM Radar, Spokane hosts 46 crypto ATM locations. Across the United States, there are 30,330 such terminals. The Spokane Police Department confirmed that the prohibition will apply not only to future installations but also to the current network of machines, though no removal timeline has been provided.
Local authorities cite increasing losses from crypto ATM scams nationwide. The FBI reported $5.6 billion in damages due to such schemes across the U.S. in 2023, with $141.75 million attributed to the state of Washington alone.
“Unfortunately, many in our community have fallen victim to this growing problem, losing their savings. This is an important first step in protecting Spokane residents,” stated detective Tim Schwering of the Spokane Police Department.
Total Number of Crypto ATMs in the US Source: Coin ATM RadarCouncil representatives describe crypto ATMs as a “tool of choice” for scammers, especially those preying on older and vulnerable populations. This trend echoes international regulatory tightening; for instance, Australia’s financial intelligence agency AUSTRAC recently introduced stricter rules for crypto ATM operators, noting that a significant share of transactions are performed by elderly citizens—often targeted by fraudsters.
Spokane’s move reflects growing global skepticism towards crypto ATMs as vectors for illicit activity and signals a shift toward more aggressive local regulation in the US digital asset market.