Legitimate Businesses Do Not Demand Payment in Bitcoin

Springfield, Mass. — The Springfield Police Department is reminding our residents and business community that a reputable business will never ask for payment via gift cards or Bitcoin (Cryptocurrency).

Only scammers demand payment in cryptocurrency. No legitimate business is going to demand you send cryptocurrency in advance – not to buy something, and not to protect your money. That’s always a scam.

Once you take money out of your bank and put it into a Bitcoin machine that money is not traceable and gone.

If someone calls you or your business and attempts this scam – just hang up.  If you or your business is or becomes a victim, please report it to the police.

Please share this information with your family, especially the elderly.