Albuquerque bans crypto ATMs, orders removal

Albuquerque’s Virtual Currency Ordinance has taken effect, banning cryptocurrency ATMs and cashier-assisted crypto transactions within city limits. Existing kiosks must stop operating immediately and be removed by Dec. 5; businesses that do not comply risk fines of $500 per day and possible license revocation. City officials say the restrictions are intended to curb scams that pressure victims—particularly older and vulnerable residents—to convert cash into cryptocurrency that can be difficult or impossible to recover. The ordinance does not prohibit residents from owning, mining, or privately transferring cryptocurrency through online exchanges and personal wallets.