Ohio's Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) issued a warning that was not only alarming but also critical. It said criminals were stealing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card information targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) users. This trend advises officials to guide SNAP beneficiaries on protecting their benefits against scamming.
Methods Used by Criminals in Hacking SNAP Benefits
To steal EBT card details, fraudsters are using "skimming." What people do is that they place a hidden device on card readers where sensitive information is captured when users swipe them. Consequently, ordinary folks may unknowingly be giving out their cards' data to crooks resulting in unauthorized access into their benefits.
In Franklin County,this incident has transformed a serious issue into an emergency for many families. After realizing that the benefits she counted on over the month were gone, Taylor Timmons, a mother of three including one child who is disabled broke down. "I shed tears; I have three kids to feed, one with special needs, and no idea how we're going to feed them this month," said Timmons, according to 24 News.
She isn't the only person experiencing this suffering. Franklin County alone has reported 216 cases involving theft of SNAP benefits in July with thieves escaping with more than $37,000 in their hands. The situation is part of a larger problem affecting people all across Ohio. Between October 1st 2022 and now, the ODJFS has paid back over $4.2m refunding roughly 8,517 individuals who were victims of such robberies.
Steps to Take If Your SNAP Benefits Are Stolen
Those whose SNAP account was compromised can ask for a reimbursement. The following are important steps as suggested by the ODJFS for anyone finding themselves in such unfortunate situations:
- File a Police Report: A police report documenting the loss is essential when substantiating your claim or even reporting it officially.
- Complete the Necessary Forms: At the nearest ODJFS office locally available victims are supposed to fill in an outlined form from ODJFS and sign other required documents.
- Request a New EBT Card: Call 1-866-386-3071 to get another EBT card so as to prevent further problems and restore access to welfare services.
At present time many families have been affected by theft that has resulted into numerous reimbursements. Officials in Ohio are warning anyone who holds SNAP benefits to be cautious, report any unusual incidents as they occur and make sure no theft occurs while these processes are ongoing.
For more information and updates, SNAP beneficiaries can contact local ODJFS offices or visit the website of the department.
Securing Your SNAP Account
Several vital measures have been outlined by ODJFS aimed at securing your SNAP benefits:
- Utilize the Secure ConnectEBT App: On your mobile device you can safely manage your benefits through ConnectEBT app.
- Lock Your Card: Locking card feature ensures only you can use it for transactions.
- Change Your PIN Regularly: To enhance security create a unique PIN and update it every month.
- Guard Your Information: Do not share the number of your card or pin and always remember that never will ODJFS ask for information about your card.
- Check Card Readers: Ensure there are no signs of tampering or skimming devices on point-of-sale card readers all times.
- Shield Keypad Entry: When entering your PIN, cover the keypad so others cannot see it.
What To Do If You Suspect Skimming
If you suspect that someone might have skimmed your EBT card information, follow these steps:
- Avoid Using Compromised Readers: Do not use any strange-looking or suspicious card readers.
- Check for Tampering: Make sure that there are no skimming devices by pulling at the edges of the keypad.
- Inform Store Staff: In case you notice anything abnormal or devices that raise suspicion, just alert store personnel immediately.
ODJFS also recommends individuals who believe their SNAP benefits have been misused to report such cases via its website or by emailing Family_Assistance_Inquiries@jfs.ohio.gov.
Being vigilant and taking these precautions will help protect your benefits and financial well-being as criminals continue to target vulnerable populations.
