An investigation by the Division of Banks found that more than 300 Massachusetts ATMs are operating without state approval, officials announced today. Another 101 machines, although properly registered, do not meet state guidelines.

The ATMs, located mostly at grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations and liquor stores, received cease-and-desist orders from the division this month after the statewide probe.

Non-bank ATMs have exploded in popularity in recent years, nearly tripling over the last decade, according to the division’s statement. All of the 5,600 non-bank ATMs in Massachusetts are supposed to apply for approval from the division, and include information on ownership, security provisions and proposed surcharges, among other things. The 300 unauthorized ATMs must cease operations until they get regulatory approval to re-open.

The division also inspected 101 authorized non-bank ATMs, and found that all had violations of some sort. The most common violation included failing to disclose the contact information of the owner and operator of the ATM, as well as a contact phone number. Another common violation included failing to post the division’s contact information for consumer inquires and complaints.

"Non-bank ATM operators must follow state regulations, register their machines, and make sure consumers are appropriately aware of the fees and ownership of a machine," said David J. Cotney, the acting commissioner of the division. "Consumers must have a high level of trust and protection when using an ATM that is not at a bank, and following our registration rules and regulations provides that trust and protection."

The division has provided a list of unauthorized ATMs here.