Louisiana allows crypto ATM users to demand refunds from unlicensed operators

Starting Aug. 1, Louisiana users can cancel virtual-currency-kiosk transactions made on or after that date and demand full refunds if the machine's owner or operator was unlicensed. Act 482 places the cost of eligible refunds on the operator, depending on their license status at the time of the transaction. The act maintains the existing rule requiring operators to hold transactions for 72 hours or allow cancellations within that period for full refunds.

For refund requests under R.S. 6:1389(B), operators must respond within 10 business days, detailing all requirements for obtaining the refund. This deadline applies to the response, not the payment. Operators must also provide live support through a toll-free number displayed on the kiosk and included on transaction receipts.

In cases of suspected fraud, operators may require proof of a police report or identification. A covered refund must be completed within 90 calendar days of the initial request. If the operator's policy requires additional documentation, the deadline extends to 90 days from the submission of that documentation.

Louisiana law considers owning or operating a kiosk as virtual-currency business activity requiring a license. As of July 31, there were 36 active virtual-currency business licensees in Louisiana. This change comes amid rising fraud concerns, with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center reporting 144 complaints related to cryptocurrency kiosks and adjusted losses of 2874450 dollars in 2025.

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