Louisiana Takes Action Against Bitcoin ATM Scams: New Elderly Protection Regulations Fully Implemented

In 2026, Louisiana officially passed a new law introducing stricter regulatory measures to address the frequent Bitcoin ATM scams, with a focus on protecting the elderly from cryptocurrency fraud. Previously, multiple elderly residents, under the influence of scammers, deposited large sums of money via Bitcoin ATMs, mistakenly believing this could avoid legal risks or “freeze accounts.”

According to the new law, all Bitcoin ATMs must prominently display anti-scam warnings on the operation interface, clearly stating that no government agency or bank will require payment in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. When users scan a QR code or enter a wallet address, the system will automatically trigger a risk alert, warning that the action may involve fraud.

Law enforcement officials disclosed that scammers typically use pre-designed phone scripts, impersonating government officials or bank staff, claiming that the victim’s account is involved in criminal activity and threatening arrest if payment is not made immediately via cryptocurrency. This type of “intimidation scam” has become one of the main forms of Bitcoin fraud targeting the elderly.

The new regulation also introduces key risk control mechanisms: the daily deposit limit for Bitcoin ATMs is restricted to $3,000, and a mandatory 72-hour waiting period is enforced. This cooling-off period provides victims with valuable time to verify information, consult family members, or contact law enforcement, and is considered a core measure to curb impulsive transfers.

On the law enforcement front, the U.S. Department of Justice has recently recovered over $200,000 in cryptocurrency assets, including approximately 1.9 Bitcoins and 60,139 USDT, related to multiple scam cases targeting elderly individuals in Louisiana, Texas, and Minnesota. The investigation involved the U.S. Secret Service Cyber Crime Division and multiple law enforcement agencies.

Louisiana officials stated that the law not only responds to the risks associated with Bitcoin ATMs but also sends a clear signal: cryptocurrencies are not outside the reach of regulation, and financial scams targeting the elderly will face increased oversight and enforcement. This initiative is seen as a significant case in 2026 for strengthening crypto security and consumer protection in the United States.