• By Shantele Williams
• Posted Friday, May 24, 2024

Protect Your SNAP Benefits from Scammers

As part of our ongoing commitment to protect and serve our community, we want to alert all SNAP recipients to be vigilant against scammers who may attempt to steal your benefits. Recently, there has been an increase in fraudulent activities targeting SNAP beneficiaries. Here’s how you can protect yourself and what to watch out for:

Common Scams to Watch For

Phishing Emails and Texts:
Be wary of emails or text messages asking for personal information or claiming issues with your SNAP benefits. Government agencies will never ask for your Social Security number, bank information, or EBT card number via email or text.

Phone Scams:
Scammers may call, pretending to be from the SNAP office, and request your personal information. Never provide your EBT card number, PIN, or other personal details over the phone unless you are certain you are speaking with an official SNAP representative.

Skimming Devices:
Always inspect card readers at ATMs and point-of-sale terminals for tampering. Skimming devices can steal your card information when you swipe your card. How to Protect Yourself

Guard Your EBT Card and PIN:
Treat your EBT card like cash. Never share your PIN with anyone. Change your PIN regularly and immediately report a lost or stolen card.

Monitor Your Account:
Regularly check your EBT account for unauthorized transactions. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately to your local SNAP office.

Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers:
If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Do not engage with unsolicited requests for your personal information.

Use Official Channels:
Always use official contact numbers and websites for SNAP-related inquiries. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts.

What to Do if You Are Targeted
If you believe you have been targeted by a scammer or your SNAP benefits have been stolen, take the following steps immediately:

By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your SNAP benefits and ensure they are available for you and your family. Remember, safeguarding your personal information is key to preventing fraud. Stay safe and report any suspicious activities to help us combat SNAP benefit scams.

For more information, visit our office or contact us directly at 336-703-3800. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.