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SNAP Recipients Get Scammed by Skimmers

SNAP Recipients Get Scammed by Skimmers

By Yehudit Garmaise

Participants in the state’s Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), were sent up to $3,600 in September, however, thieves have been using skimming devices at checkout counters at grocery stores to steal New Yorkers’ benefits.

SNAP recipients enjoyed the extra funds in their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, thanks to the Child Tax Credit that was dramatically increased as part of the American Rescue Plan Act that President Joe Biden signed into law on March 11, 2021.

To prevent electronic thievery at checkout counters, SNAP participants should inspect the card readers for suspicious overlay devices that may hide parts of the machines.

SNAP participants should also keep a lookout for any other usual sights at checkout registers, such as: glue marks or damaged or loose parts, warned Gov. Kathy Hochul on Thursday. 

“It is unconscionable that thieves are stealing SNAP benefits from some of our most vulnerable New Yorkers,” the governor said. “I urge all EBT card users to stay vigilant and protect themselves.”

Grocery shoppers who suspect the presence of skimming devices should not use their cards.

Instead, suspicious SNAP participants should notify store managers, and contact local departments of social services and the police.

To protect themselves, EBT card users also should:

Protect their benefits by shielding the PIN pad when entering their PINs.

Change their PINs frequently and do not share them.

Check their EBT accounts regularly for unauthorized charges.

If transactions are unexpectedly declined or users receive error codes, contact the EBT Customer Services Helpline to verify the transactions on the account.

SNAP participants who believe their benefits have been stolen should contact the EBT Customer Services Helpline at 1-888-328-6399 or go to ConnectEBT.com, and report it so they can get new cards.


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