When a Stinker Store employee in Boise unplugged a cryptocurrency ATM to stop two seniors from losing over $30,000 to scammers last fall, they didn’t just prevent financial loss, they demonstrated the power of community vigilance. As Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador has warned, cryptocurrency kiosk scams are surging across our state, targeting older adults with sophisticated schemes that exploit trust and technology.
These scams often begin with a phone call from someone pretending to be tech support or a government official. The caller insists the victim must deposit cash into a cryptocurrency kiosk (a machine that looks like an ATM) to fix a computer issue or pay a fine. Once the money is sent, it’s nearly impossible to recover. In 2024 alone, reported cryptocurrency losses in Idaho jumped to over $35 million, with seniors bearing the brunt of these crimes.
At AARP Idaho, we know the toll fraud takes on our communities. According to our latest research, 1 in 5 Idaho adults age 45 and older have either been a victim of fraud or know someone who has. More than half (52%) reported the incident to authorities, and 37% know a close friend or family member who has been targeted. These numbers reflect a widespread issue that demands ongoing attention.
Yet, there is good news. While cryptocurrency scams are devastating, they are not yet widespread among older Idahoans. Only 6% of Idahoans age 45+ have experienced or know someone who has experienced fraud involving cryptocurrency, according to AARP data. That means our education and outreach efforts are working. It also means that it’s time for early prevention.
Through fraud prevention workshops, “Scam Jam” events, and our Fraud Watch Network Helpline, AARP Idaho is empowering residents to recognize red flags and report suspicious activities. We collaborate with law enforcement, community partners, and local businesses to ensure Idahoans have the tools they need to protect themselves and their loved ones.
But we must remain vigilant. Scammers are constantly evolving, and the stakes are high. Older adults are often targeted because they have good credit, own homes and have savings. As more seniors use digital tools for communication and banking, criminals are adapting their tactics to exploit these habits.
Here’s what you can do:
- Never send money via cryptocurrency ATM to resolve a tech issue or pay a fine.
- Verify the identity of anyone requesting payment — especially if they claim to be from a government agency or tech company.
- Report suspected scams to ReportScamsIdaho.com and AARP’s Fraud Watch Network.
Together, we can protect Idaho’s older adults from fraud and ensure that our communities remain safe, informed, and resilient.
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