Protect Against EBT Fraud

 
Help clients keep their SNAP and cash benefits safe. Community partners help prevent card skimming, scams, and stolen benefits.

 

Community partners help clients prevent EBT fraud, such as card skimming, phone scams, and text message scams. This page explains common fraud risks, how clients can protect their benefits, and how to spot unusual messages.

money and lock on keyboard

What is EBT fraud?

EBT fraud happens when someone steals a card number, PIN, or personal details and uses benefits without permission.

Common types of EBT fraud:

• Card skimming at stores or ATMs
• Phone or text scams asking for PIN or card details
• Not approved account use or stolen benefits

Key message for clients

DSS and EBT staff will never ask for a PIN.

 

Skimming: The Most Common Risk

Skimming happens when criminals place a device on a card reader to capture card numbers and PINs.
 
Places where skimming may occur:
• Grocery stores and corner markets
• ATMs or point-of-sale machines• Gas stations or small retailers
 
Warning signs of a skimming device:

• Loose or bulky card slot
• Keypad that feels thick or hard to press
• Device that looks different from others nearby
• Hidden cameras or unusual attachments

 

If something does not look right, clients should not use the machine and should alert store staff.

 

 

How clients can protect their EBT card

Share these tips during outreach and case interactions.

PIN safety

• Avoid simple PINs. Number combinations such as 1111, 1234, or 9876 may be easy to guess.
• Keep your PIN and card number secret. Do not share this information with anyone outside your household.
• Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Stay alert to scams

• DSS and EBT customer service will never call or text to ask for your PIN or card number.

Good security habits

• Change your PIN often, at least once a month and before benefits are added.
• Check your EBT account regularly for charges you did not make.
• Report unusual activity right away.

Contact EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-2666

DSS text messages: what is legitimate?

To support clients with helpful messages and benefit reminders, DSS sends text messages.

DSS text messages come from:

• Short code 60302
• DSS Benefits Center number 1-855-626-6632

Real DSS text messages will always include:

• The client’s first name
• The last four digits of the Client ID number

Tell clients to check for these details before they respond to any message.

 

 

How to spot a fraudulent text

Clients should be cautious of messages that:

• Come from unknown phone numbers
• Ask for a PIN, card number, or full personal information
• Create a sense of urgency or pressure the client to act fast
• Contain unusual or suspicious links

Partner reminder

If a text does not include the client’s first name and last four digits of their Client ID, it may not be from DSS.

 

What to do if benefits may have been stolen

Quick action can help stop further loss.

Steps for clients:

1. Change the PIN immediately
2. Call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-2666
3. Review recent transactions
4. Request a replacement EBT card if needed

Clients who think their benefits were stolen or their identity is at risk can request a new card through EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-2666.

 

How Community Partners can help

Partners can reduce fraud by reinforcing key safety messages.

 

Suggested partner actions:

• Remind clients DSS will never ask for a PIN
• Encourage clients to verify DSS text messages before responding
• Promote monthly PIN changes
• Share alerts about skimming and scams
• Encourage quick reporting of unusual activity

 

Talking points for client conversations

• “DSS will never ask for your PIN by phone or text.”

 

• “Check card readers before you swipe.”

 

• “Cover your PIN when you enter it.”

 

• “Verify DSS text messages before responding.”

 

• “Report unusual activity right away.”

What to do if benefits may have been stolen

Quick action can help stop further loss.

Steps for clients:

1. Change the PIN immediately
2. Call EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-2666
3. Review recent transactions
4. Request a replacement EBT card if needed

Clients who think their benefits were stolen or their identity is at risk can request a new card through EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-2666.