Albuquerque Pulls the Plug on Crypto ATMs

Albuquerque has banned all cryptocurrency kiosks within city limits. The ordinance took effect on October 21, giving operators until December 5 to remove the machines.

Officials cite widespread fraud as the main driver. The CFTC reported that victims lost over $388 million to crypto ATM scams in 2025, with criminals often pressuring targets to send cash to controlled wallets.

Residents can still hold, mine, and transfer crypto privately through exchanges and personal wallets. The restrictions target only physical terminals and cashier-assisted transactions.

Council members Stephanie Telles and Tammy Fiebelkorn sponsored the measure, which the council passed on September 9 and Mayor Tim Keller signed on October 2. Non-compliance carries a $500 daily fine plus possible loss of business licenses.

Based on information from cryptonews.net