SNAP Benefits Update: Is Your EBT Card Being Locked? Don't Believe This Scam!

By Mary Webber Nov 15 2022, 19:54 PM EST

A new SNAP benefits scam has emerged, prompting the Department of Social Services in South Carolina to advise the SNAP benefits payments recipients to be extra vigilant.

The South Carolina DSS noted that scams are spreading regarding SNAP benefits EBT card claiming that users' Electronic Benefit Transfer cards are locked, according to the department's spokesperson.

The Social Services Department said that it will never send beneficiaries a text message regarding locking cards and require a SNAP recipient to contact a 1-888-number, then provide their EBT card number to unlock benefits.

The department added that those who receive text messages claiming that their EBT card is locked should not respond.

A department spokesperson also added that the recipients should "stay vigilant against unauthorized purchases using their EBT card."

SNAP Benefits Scams

In October, the United States Department of Agriculture issued two warnings in October about food stamp scams, with some states reporting hundreds of dollars in stolen benefits.

Experts believe that the rise in SNAP benefits scams is the result of criminals taking advantage of the increase of SNAP benefits recipients during the pandemic.

The United States Agriculture Department noted that there are several reports of card skimming and phishing scams making the rounds among SNAP recipients.

More than $178,000 in SNAP and cash assistance benefits was reported stolen in August in Maryland, as reported by Forbes.

The Department of Agriculture then released reports about the two common types of SNAP benefits scams.

The department warned that criminals are now using card skimming to steal SNAP benefits from recipients.

Skimmers steal card and PIN information by installing hidden cameras, keypad overlays, and card data retrievers in the point-of-sale terminal when recipients swiper or insert their cards.

Another type of scam is phishing. It involves criminals sending fraudulent messages that seem they came from credible sources.

Once the target responds or clicks a link, criminals then ask the recipients for personal information and may even request their EBT card and PIN.

Scammers can then steal benefits directly from the victim, which can be done either by redeeming them while shopping or withdrawing them.

The department noted that if you have fallen victim to SNAP benefits scams, you must contact your state SNAP office immediately.

SNAP benefits payments beneficiaries should also change their PIN often to prevent theft, and look up the state's refund policy if their food stamps have been stolen.