TOPEKA (KSNT) – Lawmakers and law enforcement in Kansas are campaigning to fight back against financial fraud this year.
Over the last few years, fraud has increased in Kansas. The most common targets are senior citizens, and some of the fastest-growing tools scammers are using are cryptocurrency, ATMs and crypto kiosks.
“When you look at the national level, numbers confirm what we’re up against here,” said Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay. “Last year alone, Americans reported $16.6 billion in fraud losses and more than 850,000 complaints.”
Rep. Nick Hoheisel (R-Wichita) introduced House Bill 2515, also known as the Virtual Currency Kiosk Consumer Protection Act, to address this issue. This legislation increases oversight of crypto ATMs, adds consumer protection and slows down transactions
“This bill is not about banning cryptocurrency,” Hoheisel said. “It’s not about picking winners and losers in technology. It’s not about standing in the way of innovation. This is about consumer protection, and that’s it. Right now, scammers are exploiting gaps in our system. they know where the weak points are, and they are using them every single day.”
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If something seems off, call your financial institution. One question can make the difference. To learn more about how you can fight back against financial fraud in Kansas, click here.
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