Officials Work to Protect Families From EBT Fraud

By Y.M. Lowy

EBT fraud is spreading quickly, draining much-needed benefits from seniors and low-income families who rely on them to buy food. Organized groups are placing hidden skimming devices in stores and ATMs, stealing millions in food assistance.

To help protect residents, the DA is holding events across the borough to show people how to spot these devices and keep their cards safe by locking them when not in use and changing PINs often. A special assistant DA is also working with state and federal agencies to go after the scammers behind these crimes.

Some City Council members are now pushing to bring back reimbursements for victims, after Congress ended the program last year. Officials are also asking for chip technology to be added to EBT cards to make them harder to hack.

Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted is urged to report it right away to help stop the fraud and catch those responsible.