Rise in Crypto-Related Scams in Western Massachusetts
Law enforcement officials in western Massachusetts are reporting an alarming increase in scams associated with cryptocurrencies, particularly one scheme that has led to significant financial losses for victims. Many consumers might have noticed cryptocurrency ATMs in local convenience and grocery stores. These machines primarily facilitate Bitcoin transactions, allowing users to exchange physical cash for digital currency, which is then stored in a designated digital wallet. Although these ATMs themselves are legitimate, Springfield Police Superintendent Larry Akers warns that they are becoming focal points for scams that are costing residents substantial amounts of money.
Significant Financial Losses Reported
Akers revealed that since the start of 2024, approximately $624,000 has been lost by individuals in Springfield due to scams that predominantly involve Bitcoin. He noted that the frequency and sophistication of these scams are on the rise. In total, victims from various scams in the city have lost over a million dollars, a figure that likely does not account for those who may refrain from reporting their losses due to embarrassment. During a recent press briefing, Akers, along with representatives from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, reported that at least 29 individuals have come forward after being enticed to deposit money into these ATMs.
How the Scams Operate
The scams typically begin with a phone call, where victims are manipulated into believing they must settle a fine to avoid severe consequences. The callers often impersonate law enforcement officials, including members of the sheriff’s department, convincing victims that they owe money due to fabricated reasons such as outstanding warrants or fines. According to Akers, victims are directed to Bitcoin ATMs—often located within convenience stores—where they are instructed to deposit cash to avoid arrest.
Widespread Impact and Vulnerable Populations
Springfield police and the sheriff’s office have noted that victims have traveled from as far as Connecticut and upstate New York to the Springfield area, with scammers remaining on the line for up to two and a half hours to guide them through the process. The amount lost by individuals can vary widely, with some losing just a few thousand dollars while others face losses in the tens of thousands. Victims span a wide age range, from those in their 20s to seniors in their 90s. Akers and Sergeant Denny Denault pointed out that once funds are deposited, they are frequently transferred to an untraceable recipient in another country.
Advice for Potential Victims
Denault emphasized that while the companies operating these ATMs are generally cooperative with law enforcement, retrieving lost funds is rarely successful due to the rapid transfer of money. He advised that the simplest way to avoid falling victim to such scams is to hang up the phone or contact the police. He highlighted a recent incident where a potential victim called the police and avoided losing approximately $15,000 after realizing the call was suspicious.
Warnings from Law Enforcement Officials
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department Chief Frank Ott reiterated that some scam calls involve impersonators posing as deputies, claiming that a Bitcoin deposit is necessary to resolve a warrant or other legal issues—a practice he clarified would never occur from his office. Ott explained how victims receive calls from individuals posing as deputies with real names from the department, misleading them into thinking they must deposit money in Bitcoin accounts to clear outstanding warrants. He strongly urged the public to disregard such requests, reinforcing that the sheriff’s department would not solicit money in this manner.
Real-Life Consequences of the Scams
In one instance, a woman from Wilbraham received a call from a fraudulent “deputy” who claimed she would be arrested for allegedly missing jury duty unless she deposited $6,000 across several crypto ATMs in Springfield. This occurred on May 29, and the following day, another Springfield resident fell victim to a nearly identical scam, losing $10,000—her entire savings. Reports indicate that she suffered a breakdown and attempted to “turn herself in” when scammers demanded more money.
