JUNEAU, Alaska—The Alaska Senate has unanimously passed SB 249, legislation creating a statewide regulatory framework for virtual currency kiosks, commonly known as Bitcoin ATMs, after supporters said scammers are using the machines to quickly move victims’ money.
The bill recently passed 20-0 on and was transmitted to the House.
Sponsored by Sen. Cathy Tilton (R-Wasilla), SB 249 would require crypto kiosks to display fraud warnings, obtain licenses, impose transaction limits, cap fees, and provide a pathway for victims of fraudulent transfers to seek refunds or judicial recourse.
Tilton said she introduced the bill after her mother was targeted by scammers using a cryptocurrency kiosk. She said Alaskans lost more than $26 million to online fraud in 2024, with seniors accounting for one-third of those losses. AARP Alaska Advocacy Director Marge Stoneking said the measure would help protect older Alaskans’ savings from scammers using cryptocurrency kiosks.
The vote comes weeks after Alaska Attorney General Stephen Cox warned that criminals are increasingly directing victims to crypto ATMs while posing as law enforcement or other officials. Cox said no legitimate business, bank or law enforcement officer will ask someone to put cash into a crypto ATM for bail, to protect money or for any similar reason.