They work, but fees are high, often 10% or more above the market price. They're also a favorite scam tool. No real bank, police department, government agency, or tech support will ever ask you to pay at a Bitcoin ATM.
Go deeperThe FBI received over 13,000 complaints about crypto ATM scams in 2025, with about $388 million lost, mostly by older adults. Scammers keep victims on the phone and give them a QR code to send cash to. Once sent, it can't be reversed. If anyone tells you to go to a Bitcoin ATM, hang up and call someone you trust.