How did you first hear about bitcoin?
Maybe you saw a story on the news and did some research.
Perhaps a friend or family member told you about it, and you were intrigued.
You might have even seen a bitcoin ATM in your local mall or grocery store and decided to check it out.
Exciting, isn’t it? What a time to be alive, magic internet money and all that.
However, the steps involved in making your first purchase can appear to be daunting.
In this blog post, we will explain the basics of bitcoin ATMs and kiosks and help you find your nearest Bitcoin ATM kiosk.
Also learn how Bitcoin transactions work.
What is a Bitcoin ATM?
Bitcoin ATMs and kiosks are much like the standard ATMs you see every day.
When you deposit cash into a traditional ATM, you enter your debit card first to access your account. Once you have finished depositing money into the ATM (minus any transaction fees) it’s credited into your bank account.
Benefits Of Using Bitcoin ATM
You can also take advantage of the conveniences of using a Bitcoin ATM. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:
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Fast and Convenient
A Bitcoin ATM can complete cryptocurrency trading transactions in just a few minutes. You can buy Bitcoins by simply inserting cash into the machine. Selling is also possible without waiting for several days to encash coins. Bitcoin ATM users just need to carefully follow the steps displayed on the screen.
Plus, you don’t have to create an online wallet, use a public key, or signup for a user account to buy and sell Bitcoins on ATMs, making each transaction a breeze.
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Secure
Bitcoin ATMs are designed and built around anonymity and security. Similar to a traditional ATM, they also require passwords, 2-factor authentication and other identity verification methods to complete transactions. There are also no third parties involved as it goes directly to the blockchain.
Some Bitcoin ATMs can also generate unique QR codes when a new transaction is made, giving you the assurance that your crypto asset is safe and secure.
In addition, Bitcoin transactions in online platforms have a high risk of scams or hacking. With a Bitcoin ATM, traders can buy and sell safely right from their wallets. You’ll have greater control over your funds. You also don’t have to rely on custodians, so you retain complete Bitcoin ownership.
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Availability of ATM Machines
The number of Bitcoin ATMs are currently increasing. These ATMs are already available and accessible in key cities worldwide, so you can basically complete transactions almost anywhere.
Using the Bitcoin ATM
Bitcoin ATMs work almost the same way as fiat ATMs, with a few simple differences.
- Instead of a debit card, you typically scan or show your government-issued ID or enter your phone number, so the ATM or kiosk can verify where to send the bitcoin.
- Much like with a deposit ATM, you will insert cash bills into the machine, but instead of depositing U.S dollars, it automatically exchanges that money for the equivalent amount of bitcoin.
Receiving your bitcoins
When using a bitcoin ATM, you will receive a deposit of bitcoin directly into your digital wallet.
When you are using a Bitcoin kiosk, you receive a redemption code on your receipt that you must enter online later to receive your bitcoin.
Selling bitcoins via a Bitcoin ATM
Some Bitcoin ATMs also offer two-way functionality which allows for you to do the same transaction in reverse: Withdraw bitcoin that is immediately exchanged into US dollars that are then dispensed from that ATM.
When in doubt, it pays off checking out expert resources in bitcoin trading. You reduce the risks of errors and get the best value for your investment by doing so.
How Do I Use A Bitcoin ATM?
The screen itself typically provides a step-by-step tutorial.
In the video below, we will show you an example transaction using a Coinstar kiosk powered by Coinme.
- When you approach the kiosk, you simple hit get started and select the option that says Buy Bitcoin.
- After you review the brief terms and conditions, you are directed to enter your phone number. This part of the process ensures your security and links your phone number to the bitcoin purchase so no one else can gain access to your bitcoin.
- Next you will get to see the exchange rate for your bitcoin purchase.
- Finally, nou can then enter your dollar bills into the bill acceptor. Typically this is down and to the right of the screen.
- Once you have inserted all your bills, you can verify the amount entered and hit the buy bitcoin button on the lower, right-hand side of the screen.
After you have finished your purchase, the kiosk will print out your receipt. This is important to keep safe and secure, as it does include your bitcoin redemption code.
As we mentioned above, you will need to visit coinme.com/redeem and enter that code along with your phone number to have your bitcoin deposited into your digital wallet.
What Do I Do After the Kiosk Purchase?
After you have finished purchasing your bitcoin, the process of redeeming the voucher is simple as well. Once you have your receipt, you can visit coinme.com/redeem and begin the redemption process. There will be a step-by-step guide.
Are Bitcoin ATMs Safe?
While this does vary based on the company operating the machine, customer safety is a primary area of focus for all decent providers.
A good ATM provider should…
- Have a dedicated support team that you can call.
- Have a team of in-house engineers and maintainers.
- Pay attention to the kiosk location - ATMs and kiosks should be in well-lit, public spaces like shopping malls, providing a safe and secure user experience for everyone
In case you saw a Bitcoin ATM in your local mall, you should be able to find a phone number or other contact information somewhere on the booth to inquire about the points above.
Once you confirm the provider can be trusted, you can go make the purchase - ideally at a time of the day when the location will be moderately busy.
Article was edited and republished with permission. Original version originally appeared on coinme.com