05/18/2026
The Fairborn Police Department is warning citizens about an increase in scams involving Bitcoin and cryptocurrency machines (also known as Bitcoin ATMs).
HOW THE SCAM WORKS:
Scammer may contact victims by phone, text, email, or social media and claim to be:
• Law enforcement officers
• Government agencies (IRS, Social Security, Courts)
• Utility companies
• Banks or financial institutions
They often pressure victims to deposit cash into a bitcoin machine to:
• Pay Fines, Fees, or Taxes
• Resolve a Warrant or Legal Issue
• Secure accounts or stop “fraudulent activity”
IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
Do not share personal or financial information
Hang up immediately if you feel pressured or threatened
Do not deposit money into a Bitcoin machine for someone you do not personally know
WHAT TO DO IF YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE BEING TARGETED OR HAVE ALREADY BEEN CONTACTED:
- Stop the transaction immediately
- Call the Fairborn Police Department as soon as possible.
- If the scam is in progress, call 911.
Early reporting may help prevent further loss and protect others in our community.
Stay Alert. Stay Informed. Stay Safe.
If it sounds urgent, threatening, or unusual — pause and verify before acting.
Please help your friends and family by sharing this information.