Protecting Your EBT Benefits
How to Avoid Scams
Note: October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month
Scammers are increasingly targeting vulnerable individuals, particularly those receiving government assistance through programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), WIC, Unemployment, FEMA etc. A surge of attacks has been draining funds from SNAP recipients by exploiting weaknesses in the EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) system.
One common scam involves criminals tampering with credit card readers to steal card information. EBT cards, unlike many modern credit cards with EMV chips, lack advanced security features, making them easier targets. Once scammers obtain your EBT card details, they can siphon benefits from your SNAP account.
While EBT security protocols can differ by state, here are some practices to help protect your benefits. These steps can’t guarantee you’ll never fall victim to fraud, but they can significantly reduce the risk.
- Shop at Larger Retailers
Although scammers can target card readers at big stores like Walmart or Kroger, these retailers typically have better security measures in place. Your risk of encountering a compromised card reader is lower at these chains.
- Guard Your SNAP Information Like Cash
Treat your EBT card and PIN as if they were cash. Never share your card details or PIN with anyone, and always shield your hand when entering your PIN at a terminal. Keep in mind, no federal or state agency will ever call to ask for your PIN. If someone does, it’s almost certainly a scam.
- Inspect Card Readers for Tampering
While card skimmers are getting harder to spot, always inspect the reader before using it. Look for anything unusual, such as loose parts, bulges, or misaligned components. If something feels off, ask to use a different machine or checkout lane.
- Consider Buying Groceries Online
When possible, purchasing groceries online can help you avoid using physical card readers. However, it’s important to maintain strong online security habits:
- Use unique passwords that are at least 16 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Use a password manager to generate and store secure passwords.
- Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Be cautious of phishing emails or suspicious links.
- Regularly Monitor Your Account
Frequently check your EBT account for any unfamiliar transactions. If you spot unauthorized charges, contact your state’s EBT support team right away. Always use official websites or apps to review your account balance.
- Report Fraud Immediately
If you suspect you’ve been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement and your state’s EBT office. Most states offer online portals for reporting fraud, so check your EBT account website for details.
Unfortunately, scammers aren’t concerned about how much you rely on your benefits—they only care about easy targets. While EBT card security may not yet match that of credit cards, staying vigilant and adopting good habits can help protect your SNAP benefits from fraud.