SNAP Benefits Stolen Through Electronic Theft

Electronic benefit theft (also known as “skimming” “phishing” or “card cloning”) is a type of theft that occurs electronically, even if the EBT card is never physically lost.

Skimming devices are placed on store’s card-swiping machine to copy EBT, credit, and debit card information. Card information is then used to make fake cards (called “clones”) to steal money from accounts. Skimming can happen anywhere EBT cards are swiped. SNAP participants impacted by skimming often find out when they attempt to make a new purchase or check their EBT balance.

Phishing is a different type of fraud where thieves trick people into clicking on a link that looks legitimate (usually sent through text or email). These fraudulent messages often direct the SNAP recipient to a third-party website or attempt to coax the person into providing their EBT card number and PIN, enabling scammers to create a point of access with which they steal the victim’s SNAP benefits. NYS OTDA and SNAP Offices will never ask for SNAP EBT account information by phone or email.

Immediately contact the EBT Customer Service Helpline to report the theft and request a replacement EBT card by:

• Calling 1-888-328-6399,
• Visiting www.ebtEDGE.com
• Or through the ebtEDGE mobile app.

When reporting an EBT card lost or stolen using the above methods, the cardholder will also have the option to order a replacement card.

USDA and OTDA encourages cardholders to safeguard their EBT cards and take the following actions to help prevent theft of SNAP benefits:

• Keep the SNAP EBT PIN a secret. Cardholders should not share their PIN with anyone outside of their household. Cover the keypad when entering the PIN on a machine.
• Lock your EBT card. Use the new freeze/unfreeze card feature to help secure your EBT card and protect benefits from scam-related theft. See below for a “how to”.
• Check the SNAP EBT account regularly for authorized charges. Change the EBT PIN immediately to stop the thief from making any new purchases. By changing the PIN, anyone attempting to gain access to the EBT account via a duplicate card will be restricted.
• Check card reading machines to make sure there’s nothing suspicious attached to the card swiper or keypad. The skimming device can be difficult to detect, but are often bigger than the original machine and may hide parts of the machine.

EBT Card Freezing Features

Cardholders can freeze their EBT card when it is not in use and then unfreeze the card to make a purchase. Follow these four simple steps to freeze an EBT card:

1. Open www.ebtEDGE.com or download the ebtEDGE app on your mobile device (available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store)
2. Securely log in to your account.
3. Tap the new “Freeze/Unfreeze Card” icon on the home screen.
4. Select “Freeze My Card Everywhere” and click “OK”.

Other Important Security Features of the ebtEDGE Mobile App or the Web Portal:

• Check transactions and deposits
• Block internet and out-of-state transactions
• Change PIN (if needed)
• Request a replacement card if lost, stolen, or damaged

These security features can help to prevent scam-related electronic benefit theft. Once clients set up their account, the above-mentioned features can be used to help keep their benefits safe.