Albuquerque Orders Removal of Bitcoin ATMs Within 45 Days

Albuquerque city council has voted to ban Bitcoin automated teller machines (ATMs) and has given operators a 45‑day window to remove the devices from the city. The decision follows statements from a councilor who said that roughly 90 % of the transactions processed by these kiosks are tied to fraudulent activity, describing the machines as a conduit for crime.

Regulatory Action

The ban represents a direct regulatory response to concerns about illicit use of cryptocurrency services in the municipality. Operators are required to cease operations and dismantle the ATMs by the stipulated deadline.

Impact on Users

Residents who previously relied on the kiosks for buying or selling Bitcoin will need to seek alternative methods, such as online exchanges or peer‑to‑peer platforms, to conduct their transactions.

Broader Context

The move adds Albuquerque to a growing list of U.S. jurisdictions taking steps to limit on‑site crypto services amid allegations of fraud and money‑laundering risks.