Riverton police chief: treat a cryptocurrency payment request like cash to a stranger

RIVERTON — The Riverton Police Department published a public safety message on cryptocurrency scams, signed by Police Chief Shane Taylor and dated Aug. 1, 2026 1.

The department states that cryptocurrency scams are increasing rapidly across the United States and that Utah is no exception 1. It reports that state officials say a growing share of fraud complaints now involve cryptocurrency, with some victims losing their life savings 1.

The message sets out one rule for residents: if someone asks you to pay with cryptocurrency, treat the request the same as handing cash to a stranger, because cryptocurrency transactions are difficult and often impossible to reverse 1. It states that a request that feels urgent, secretive or too good to be true is almost certainly a scam 1.

The department said understanding how the scams work is one of the best ways to protect yourself, and that it is committed to protecting the community through education and awareness 1. It said residents who stay informed and recognize the warning signs can help protect themselves, their families and their finances 1.

The department listed its media contact for the message as pio@rivertonutah.gov, 801-208-3134 1.

Sources:

1 Riverton City, "Public Safety Message: Cryptocurrency Scams in Utah," by Chief Shane Taylor, Aug. 1, 2026. https://www.rivertonutah.gov/blog_detail_T55_R586.php?page=/newsroom.php&section=Newsroom