West Virginia Urged to Crack Down on via New Kiosk Regulations

As skyrocket across the U.S., West Virginia faces a growing threat to its residents’ savings. Groups like AARP West Virginia are pushing state lawmakers to pass strong laws. They want better rules for crypto kiosks, which look like regular ATMs but can lead to big losses. These machines are popping up in stores and gas stations, making them easy targets for fraud.

What Are Cryptocurrency Kiosks and Why Are They Dangerous?

Cryptocurrency kiosks are machines that let you buy or sell digital coins like Bitcoin. They sit in busy spots like grocery stores, gas stations, and laundromats. At first glance, they seem safe, just like bank ATMs. But here’s the problem: many scams use these kiosks to trick people.

Criminals call victims, pretending to be from the IRS, tech support, or even family in trouble. They tell people to send money via crypto kiosks. Once you scan a QR code and send the coins, the money is gone. No refunds, high fees, and no easy way to get it back. In West Virginia, these scams hit hard, especially older folks who may not know about crypto.

• Hidden fees: Up to 20-30% on transactions.
• No regulation: In West Virginia, operators don’t need a license.
• Irreversible: Blockchain transactions can’t be undone like bank wires.

National data shows over $333 million lost to kiosk scams in one year. In West Virginia alone, victims lost $7.6 million in 2024. That’s real money from families’ pockets.

AARP West Virginia Sounds the Alarm

During a press event at the State Capitol, AARP West Virginia leaders shared poll results. They spoke with lawmakers from both parties. State Director Gaylene Miller said fraud is now a “kitchen table issue.” It threatens life savings for everyday families.

Miller noted many people walk past kiosks daily without knowing what they are. “You’ve seen them, you just didn’t know,” she said. AARP wants action now, before more West Virginians suffer.

Poll Shows Strong Public Support for Change

A recent poll of over 1,000 West Virginia voters revealed key facts:

• 42% wrongly think kiosks are already licensed by the state.
• Only 11% know there’s no licensing.
• 89% back clear fraud reporting signs on machines.
• 79% support licensing kiosk operators.

Other ideas like age checks and fee disclosures got 80%+ support. Voters see this as a top priority. AARP State President Roger Calhoun added that 85% would vote for candidates who fight scams. Fraud protection isn’t niche—it’s a voter must-have.

24 States Already Acting—Why Not West Virginia?

While West Virginia lags, 24 states have rules on kiosks. Seventeen have full laws. These include:

1. Licensing for operators.
2. Visible warnings about risks.
3. Transaction limits for new users.
4. Record-keeping for investigations.

States like Florida and Texas lead the way. Their laws cut scam reports. West Virginia lawmakers could copy these simple steps. It’s common-sense protection for consumers.

Beyond Kiosks: Other Scams Targeting West Virginians

Crypto isn’t the only worry. AARP highlighted:

• Real estate wholesaling: Fake deals to flip properties.
• Gift card fraud: Draining cards for cash.
• Elder abuse: Family or strangers stealing savings.
• Deed fraud: Forged papers to steal homes.

These crimes hurt communities. They wipe out generational wealth and cause emotional pain. Lawmakers must tackle the full scam ecosystem.

What Can Lawmakers Do This Session?

The 2025 legislative session is key. AARP urges bills for:

These fixes are straightforward. They balance crypto innovation with safety. Bipartisan support exists—delegates from Marion, Wood, Cabell, and Raleigh counties attended the press conference.

Tips to Protect Yourself from

Don’t wait for laws. Stay safe today:

1. Never send crypto to strangers. Real agencies don’t ask for it.
2. Check kiosks: Look for high fees and warnings.
3. Report fast: Call local police or FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP.
4. Use trusted exchanges: Apps like Coinbase have better protections.
5. Educate family: Talk to elders about scam calls.

Remember: If it sounds too urgent or secret, it’s a scam.

The Bigger Picture for Crypto in West Virginia

Crypto has promise—fast payments, investments. But without rules, scams slow adoption. Strong kiosk laws build trust. They show West Virginia is pro-innovation but anti-fraud. Voters reward leaders who act.

As FBI reports show rising losses, delay costs money. Time for . Pass protections now to safeguard families.

Conclusion

West Virginia stands at a crossroads. via kiosks steal millions yearly. Public polls scream for change. With 24 states ahead, it’s time to catch up. Lawmakers, listen to voters: license kiosks, add warnings, fight fraud. Your constituents—and their savings—depend on it.

Stay informed on crypto news. Share this post to spread awareness. Together, we can stop scammers.