City officials on Nov. 3 introduced an ordinance that would require businesses hosting cryptocurrency ATMs to post a city-provided warning sign about crypto-ATM scams and direct users to law enforcement if they suspect fraud.

Riley Slezak of the mayor's office described the measure as a consumer-protection step aimed at older adults, citing FBI data that adults 60 and older accounted for 67% of crypto-ATM fraud cases nationally in 2024. "We're 1 of 2 AARP age-friendly communities in the state," Slezak said, framing the ordinance as consistent with local priorities.

Lincoln Police Chief Michonne Morrow said LPD has tracked 426 cryptocurrency-related fraud cases since 2021 and estimated local losses at about $11,100,000. Morrow said the signage is intended to provide "that final safeguard" to give potential victims pause and a local contact if they suspect a scam.

AARP Nebraska and other community organizations and businesses supported the ordinance during public comment. Gina Ragland of AARP Nebraska and volunteer speakers shared examples of victims who were coerced to feed machines and urged the city to move quickly. Ben Peterson of the Nebraska Bankers Association and Joyce Beck of AARP offered practical support for education and implementation.

The proposal complements state law (LB 609), which imposes disclosures, transaction limits for new customers and licensing requirements for crypto kiosks; Slezak said the local ordinance would add a local enforcement and education layer. The ordinance as introduced would take effect 60 days after the council's vote to allow an education period, but city attorney Dante Christie told councilmembers they may amend the effective date at the time of adoption.

No final vote occurred on Nov. 3; proponents urged a shorter effective period so signage could be in place quickly. Chief Morrow said LPD is adding a technical investigations position in January to focus on cryptocurrency fraud.