AARP Pennsylvania Raises Alarm on Growing EBT Skimming Scams Targeting SNAP Recipients

AARP Pennsylvania Issues Warning on EBT Skimming

AARP Pennsylvania has sounded the alarm about a rising trend of scams that target users of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This growing concern revolves around a deceptive practice known as EBT skimming, where criminals employ skimming devices to illicitly capture Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card information. Once obtained, these criminals can drain the benefit accounts of their unsuspecting victims.

Mary Bach, a dedicated volunteer with AARP Pennsylvania and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force, sheds light on the severity of this issue: "Skimming is a sophisticated yet deceptive tactic. It can go unnoticed until benefits are already stolen. Awareness is the first line of defense, and taking simple steps can prevent financial hardship."

In response to this emerging threat, AARP Pennsylvania has offered several crucial recommendations for SNAP recipients to safeguard their benefits against potential skimmers. Here are the detailed strategies advised by the organization:

1. Lock Your Card When Not in Use: Utilize the ConnectEBT mobile app or website to lock your card. This app is the only one partnered with Pennsylvania to manage card transactions and history effectively.

2. Change Your PIN Regularly: It’s critical to change your PIN frequently, especially just before benefits are deposited. Regular updates can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access to your benefits.

3. Inspect Card Readers: Be vigilant when using card readers. It's essential to check for any signs of tampering such as loose components or unfamiliar overlays that may indicate a skimming device.

4. Monitor Your Balance: Keep a close eye on your account balance, and if you suspect any theft, report it immediately to local law enforcement as well as to the Office of State Inspector General (OSIG) by calling 1-800-932-0582.

Dr. Val Arkoosh, the Secretary of the Department of Human Services, acknowledges the ongoing incidents of skimming targeting SNAP recipients. "Do not become a victim of this crime. Make sure you keep your EBT card locked, regularly change your PIN, and inspect card readers for skimmer devices," she advises.

Michelle Henry, the State Inspector General, reassures citizens that her office is actively working to identify and eliminate skimming devices throughout the Commonwealth. "We urge SNAP recipients to stay vigilant and take the steps outlined here to protect their benefits from theft," she states emphatically.

In the event that benefits are stolen, immediate reporting to local law enforcement is encouraged, along with contacting the OSIG’s fraud tip line at 1-800-932-0582 for further assistance. AARP Pennsylvania offers further resources for support: individuals can call 1-877-908-3360 or visit their dedicated Fraud Resource Page at aarp.org/pafraud.

AARP Pennsylvania emphasizes the importance of community awareness and preventative education in the fight against financial crimes affecting vulnerable populations. By spreading knowledge about these scams and teaching individuals how to protect themselves, they hope to mitigate the negative impacts of EBT skimming and similar scams across the state.

Stay connected with AARP Pennsylvania by following them on social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest updates and resources to empower and protect yourself and your loved ones against financial fraud.