Lincoln Enforces New Measures to Combat Cryptocurrency Scams
In an effort to curb the rising tide of cryptocurrency fraud, the Lincoln Police Department is collaborating with AARP Nebraska to launch a comprehensive educational campaign. This initiative aims to safeguard residents from falling victim to scams that have already resulted in substantial financial losses.
By December 24, businesses in Lincoln featuring cryptocurrency ATMs must comply with a newly enacted ordinance by displaying a cautionary sticker. This sticker serves as a crucial warning to potential victims, stating: “STOP: If someone told you to put money in this machine, whether they claim to be a loved one, partner, government, bank, or business, you may be getting scammed. Scammers use fear, secrecy and urgency to trick you into sending cryptocurrency.” It advises individuals to contact the Lincoln Police Department if they suspect fraudulent activity.
The ordinance, approved by the City Council on November 17 and signed by Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird on November 24, is a response to the alarming $11 million lost by city residents to cryptocurrency scams in 2025. Detailed information about the ordinance can be found in the Lincoln Municipal Code.
Erika Thomas, the public information officer for LPD, emphasizes the importance of vigilance among business owners and their staff. “If you see someone, especially someone who’s elderly, with a phone to their ear, maybe looking confused and approaching one of these machines,” Thomas noted, “those are telltale signs that they are likely in the midst of a scam in that moment.”
Both business owners and the public are encouraged to educate themselves on scam prevention. Resources and tips are available on the City of Lincoln’s website. Thomas also mentioned an acronym developed by the department to aid in scam prevention: SCAM, which stands for stop, check, avoid, and make a report.
In addition to these efforts, LPD is set to bolster its Technical Investigations Unit by introducing a cryptocurrency investigator starting January. This new role will enhance the department’s ability to tackle digital fraud effectively.
Moreover, AARP Nebraska is extending its educational partnership to include the Grand Island Police Department, who will implement similar fraud prevention measures. This includes the introduction of bilingual warning stickers, tailored specifically for the Grand Island community.
