(TNS) — Online cryptocurrency scams have likely stolen multiple millions from unsuspecting Tri-Citians, most by way of digital ATMs found in stores around the region.

And the thefts are expected to escalate unless cities step up their regulations, said Spokane police Detective Tim Schwering, whose city was the first in Washington to ban cryptocurrency kiosk terminals.

“The best example I can give … is it would be like setting a loaded bear trap in a grocery store and acting surprised when people stepped in it,” he told the Kennewick City Council this week.

“You can still buy bear traps somewhere else, but you just shouldn’t have a loaded one in a…