AARP volunteers urge Rochester Hills to consider local rules for crypto kiosks, citing senior‑targeted scams

Rochester Hills — During the meeting's public‑comment period, two volunteers with AARP urged the City Council to consider local regulation or safeguards for cryptocurrency kiosks, arguing the devices can be used by scammers to rapidly move victim money into cryptocurrency accounts.

What was said: Dennis Brozes (AARP volunteer) told council there are one or two crypto kiosks in Rochester Hills and that the machines themselves are not the issue but a lack of regulation and monitoring leaves seniors vulnerable. He said cities have sample legal language other municipalities have used. Joe Martucci (AARP volunteer) cited national figures and an FBI number for 2024, saying "Michiganders lost more than $125,000,000 through crypto fraud" and that 85 percent of losses nationally affected adults 60 or older, as reported to AARP.

Officials' response: City and public‑safety representatives thanked the presenters and said the city is working with partners, including the Oakland County Sheriff's Department, to educate residents. Mayor Barnett and staff said local regulation is complicated, noted Sterling Heights and Grosse Pointe Farms have taken actions that Rochester Hills staff are reviewing, and emphasized outreach and law‑enforcement partnerships rather than immediate local bans.

Next steps: City staff and law enforcement will continue to review the issue and coordinate with neighboring municipalities; presenters were encouraged to continue working with the mayor and administration and to provide sample materials.