Fraud Prevention Month Comes to Minnesota

Identify Fraud: What You Need to Know

Date: Wednesday, April 15

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. CT

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Real Solutions: Protecting Yourself from Fraud

Spanish-language access available.

Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026 

Time: 12 – 1 p.m. CT

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In addition to in-person and virtual events, AARP is advocating for policy solutions to protect consumers from crypto kiosk fraud — one of the fastest-growing scam tactics in the country.

 

Criminals increasingly direct victims to cryptocurrency kiosks (sometimes called Bitcoin ATMs), where money can be transferred quickly and is often difficult to recover.

 

AARP is addressing this issue from multiple angles:

• Empowering people with information about crypto kiosk scams and what to do if they are targeted
• Urging policymakers to establish practical safeguards for consumers
• Supporting fraud victims through the AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline and fraud victim support program.

 

Minnesota was among the first states in the nation to pass protections in 2024 aimed at reducing crypto kiosk fraud. The law required operators to register with the state, provide clear disclosures and warnings, offer receipts, and limit daily transactions for new customers. 

 

Unfortunately, scammers have exploited loopholes—especially by avoiding steps that would classify someone as a ‘new customer’—to bypass daily transaction limits and steal from Minnesotans.

 

That’s why AARP Minnesota and law enforcement leaders testified before lawmakers about the growing impact of these scams and the need for stronger consumer protections. Bipartisan legislation to prohibit cryptocurrency kiosks, SF 3868  and HF 3642, received unanimous support in both the Senate and House and commerce committees and is now headed to the Senate and House floors for a vote.

   

   Tell state lawmakers: Fight fraud.

    Pass stronger crypto kiosk protections now.

 

Why This Matters

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to target unsuspecting consumers. While adults 50-plus are frequently targeted, fraud affects every generation.

 

AARP Fraud Watch Network is a free resource for all to help you proactively spot scams, get guidance from our fraud specialists if you’ve been targeted and feel more secure knowing that we advocate at the federal, state, and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.

 

“Fraud prevention is about action,” said Cathy McLeer, state director of AARP Minnesota. “When AARP shows up in communities with trusted tools and local events, we’re helping neighbors protect themselves and each other.”

 

Fraud Prevention Month helps ensure that every Minnesotan has access to reliable information and trusted resources.

 

Join the fight against fraud—from anywhere. Become an AARP Digital Fraud Fighter and help your friends and family spot and avoid scams.

 

More Resources

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ Helpline: Get guidance from trained fraud specialists: Call 877-908-3360 Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. CT

 

Subscribe to Watchdog Alerts: Stay on top of the latest scams by subscribing to AARP's free bi-weekly newsletter by email and text. 

 

AARP Scam-Tracking Map: See scams occurring near you or report one if you’ve been targeted. 

 

E-Learning — Effective Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams: This free course explains how to spot warning signs, disengage from scammers and take action if you're a target.