Fraud is one of the fastest-growing crimes in Alabama, and it causes real harm to real people every day. That is why AARP Alabama thanks the members of the Alabama Legislature and Governor Kay Ivey for making House Bill 303 law.
We especially thank State Rep. Russell Bedsole (R-Alabaster) for sponsoring this legislation. This important new law will help protect Alabamians — especially older adults — from devastating financial scams.
House Bill 303, the Cryptocurrency Kiosk Fraud Prevention Act, addresses the rapid rise of fraud involving cryptocurrency kiosks, often called crypto ATMs.
Criminals increasingly use these machines to instruct victims to deposit cash under false pretenses, such as fake government fines, bogus bank alerts, or fabricated family emergencies. Once the money is sent, victims are often left with no way to recover it.
This new law adds much-needed consumer protections. It requires cryptocurrency kiosk operators to clearly disclose fees and exchange rates, display visible scam warnings, and provide detailed receipts that can help victims and law enforcement track fraudulent transactions.
It also sets daily and monthly transaction limits to prevent massive losses and creates a process for refunds when transactions are fraudulently induced.
Just as important, it establishes customer service and direct law-enforcement contact requirements to improve accountability.
These are practical, commonsense safeguards that do not ban innovation, but they do protect people.
AARP Alabama also extends deep appreciation to the Alabama Securities Commission and Director Amanda Senn for their leadership on this issue.
The Commission has been a tireless advocate for stronger protections, shining a light on how crypto kiosk scams have cost Alabamians millions of dollars.
At AARP, we hear regularly from fraud victims and their families. For many older adults, these losses represent a lifetime of savings and create lasting emotional distress. Fraud is a crime, and the blame belongs with the criminals and not with the people they target.
By passing and signing HB 303, Alabama leaders have taken a meaningful step to stay ahead of evolving scams and protect residents from financial exploitation.
This law demonstrates what is possible when lawmakers, regulators, and advocates work together with one goal: keeping Alabamians safe.
AARP Alabama looks forward to continuing our partnership with Alabama leaders to protect consumers and strengthen our state.
Candi Williams serves as the State Director of AARP Alabama.
