Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft is a widespread problem at both ATMs and retail stores.

What is EBT electronic theft or skimming?

Scammers can install fake card readers at payment terminals in stores. When a card is used, the skimmer device reads all the data from the card's magnetic strip. Scammers can then use the information to make fake cards and steal benefits from the cardholder's account.

How to prevent EBT theft

• Inspect card readers at ATMs and in stores before using them.
• Is it loose, off-center do parts of it wiggle? If so, don’t put your card in.
• Scammers sometimes install pinhole cameras at ATMs to see your PIN.
• Tell the bank, credit union, or store what you observed.
  
• Always use your hand to cover the keypad when you enter your PIN. Change PIN regularly.
• Monitor your account and report suspicious activity. State agencies and EBT processors will never call or text you to ask for your PIN or card number. Anyone who does is a scammer.
  
• ebtEDGE - The ebtEDGE app offers card management and security features. In addition to standard account management abilities, it allows users to:
  

  • Freeze their card when not in use.

  • Block online and out-of-state transactions.

  • Change PINs regularly for added security.

  • Request a replacement card if yours is compromised

What to do if it happens

• If a person believes their benefits have been stolen, they can call the number on the back of their EBT card, 877-328-9677, or contact their local Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) office, to cancel the card.
• Cardholders must file a Report of Electronic Theft (EBT2259 - English, EBT2259 - Spanish) with their local SNAP office within 90 calendar days from the date of the theft in order to be eligible for food or cash benefit replacement.
• This California Department of Social Services webpage provides information about eligibility requirements for benefit replacement.

Web pages

• California Department of Social Services Informational Webpage on EBT Theft – https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/cdss-programs/ebt/ebt-electronic-theft-resources

• Report of Electronic Theft, Form EBT 2259 (English) - https://cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/Additional-Resources/Forms-and-Brochures/2020/E-H/EBT2259.pdf

• Report of Electronic Theft, Form EBT 2259 (Spanish) - https://cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/TranslatedForms/Spanish/EBT_2259A_SP.pdf?ver=2021-12-01-155400-573

• ebtEDGE Mobile Application Webpage - https://www.fisglobal.com/ebtedgemobile

• SNAP State Directory of Resources - https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory

• Addressing stolen SNAP benefits - https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/stolen-benefits

• SNAP for Older Adults - How Does anEBT Card Work? A Guide for Older Adults - https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-does-an-ebt-card-work-a-guide-for-older-adults