title: Bitcoin ATM Scams Are Popping Up in Manitowoc

Manitowoc's Police Chief is warning the public about Bitcoin scams.

Manitowoc's Police Chief is warning the public about Bitcoin scams.

Nick Reimer stated on WOMT’s Be My Guest program that Bitcoin ATM’s have been popping up around the city in retail shops and gas stations.

Recently, scammers have been contacting people claiming to be from government agencies or other organizations and requesting victims pay a fee in Bitcoin to obtain a service or license.

One victim was scammed out of $1,300 trying to get a health license for a business, but that total has been higher.

“We’ve seen as much as $18,000 get pumped into these (scams). So, my goal of course everyday is to let the public be aware of this and be very cautious if somebody is telling you to do cryptocurrency with these machines.”

Manitowoc Police are looking to act on the issue.

The city is working on an ordinance allowing them to place signs on the Bitcoin machines warning people about being scammed and what they should do.

"Call your banker, call a relative, call the police and say hey, does this sound legit,” he suggested. “We will help you out. And a lot of times, it will definitely be a scam and we’ll be able to recognize that."

The machines are usually located next to ATM’s.