Due to rising prices, several Americans struggle to buy food. SNAP benefit helps many US households buy food, especially as grocery costs rise.
Unfortunately, there are scam artists seeking to steal others’ benefits. If you are a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you should be aware of common scams to avoid becoming a victim of larceny. So that you can take additional precautions to protect your benefits, we’ve enumerated a few common cons.
SNAP Benefit Fraud Message
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has received reports of scammers attempting to pilfer benefits via text message. Scammers notify recipients via text message that their SNAP EBT cards have been secured. The con artist will then request that the victim provide benefits information such as their card number and PIN, putting their account at risk of deception.
Never respond to a text message or call a number provided in a text message regarding your SNAP benefits or your SNAP EBT card. If you receive such a message, it is in your best interest to contact your local SNAP office directly to verify the legitimacy of the message and avoid possible fraud.
EBT Card Skimming Scams
In addition to swiping SNAP benefits using card skimming techniques, criminals are also stealing SNAP benefits. They accomplish this by affixing a device to the card-swiping machine of a retailer, which copies the EBT card information. This type of scam can unfortunately occur when you least anticipate it.
The USDA advises SNAP participants to routinely check their accounts to ensure that no unauthorized charges have been made. In addition, before swiping your EBT card in the checkout line, scrutinize the card machine for any suspicious-looking features. If so, you should avoid using the machine. If your SNAP card has been compromised, contact your local SNAP office immediately.
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Website Scams
Online scammers are also attempting to pilfer your SNAP benefits. Be cautious when visiting a website that mentions SNAP benefits. Some con artists create websites to collect personal data, including SNAP benefits information. If a website appears suspicious or you are unsure whether it is an official website, contact your local SNAP office.
Tips To Keep Your SNAP Benefits Safe
Unfortunately, Scammers are becoming more inventive and searching for novel means to defraud average consumers. If you wish to avoid fraud in your daily life, you must exercise extreme caution. The following suggestions may help you avoid having your SNAP benefits stolen:
- Choose a distinctive PIN. Ensure that your SNAP EBT card PIN is difficult to predict when selecting one. Selecting a unique PIN will reduce your vulnerability to larceny.
- Never reveal your Passphrase to anyone else. Similarly to your debit card PIN, you should keep your SNAP EBT card PIN covert. Cover the keypad when using your card so no one can see what you type.
- Check card readers prior to use. Before you scan your SNAP EBT card, inspect the card reader for signs of tampering or other suspicious behavior.
- Review your account information. It is prudent to frequently review key accounts. This includes financial accounts such as bank accounts and credit cards. You should also routinely check your SNAP EBT account so you can rapidly identify any suspicious activity.
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