A scourge of attacks has been siphoning off SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) funds from recipients of government assistance through the EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) system. 

An increasingly common scam involves criminals tampering with credit card readers to skim the numbers off cards. Because many EBT cards don't have the security protocols of today's credit cards, like EMV chips, they are more vulnerable. Once criminals have an EBT card's information, they can steal benefits from the SNAP account.  

While EBT varies state by state, here are some habits you can follow to help prevent your benefits from being stolen. Like everything with cybersecurity, these behaviors can't guarantee you'll never be a victim, but you will significantly lower the risk.  

• Shop at large chains. While scammers can target card readers at larger stores like Kroger or Walmart, the risk of using a compromised reader is reduced because these chains generally have more security and monitoring.

• Protect your SNAP info like cash. Treat your SNAP benefits and EBT cards like cash – don't share the information with anyone. Protect your PIN by covering your hand when you're entering it into a reader. No one from the federal or state government will call to confirm or request your EBT PIN – any caller seeking this information is most likely a scammer

• Look for tampered consoles. Today, card skimmers are not very easily identified, but you should examine any card reader before swiping. Look to see if any part of a reader looks bulging or out of alignment. Are components jiggling or loose? Don't swipe your card if something seems off. Insist on using a different card reader or check stand.

• Buy groceries online. If you can, buying groceries online with your EBT account is a way to bypass using a card reader. When shopping online, you need to always remember a few security behaviors:

  • Passwords should be at least 16 characters long, unique to the account, and a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

  • Use a password manager to securely store and generate strong passwords.

  • Enable multi-factor authentication for any account that allows it.

  • Be on the lookout for phishing attempts.

• Monitor your accounts. Check your EBT balance and account often. If you notice any purchases or withdrawals you don't remember, contact your state immediately. Only use the official website and apps to check your balance.

• Contact your state for help. If you think you're the victim of a scam, contact local law enforcement. Many states have portals to report scams – check your EBT account website for how to alert the state to possible fraud.

Scammers don't care how much you need your benefits – they look for the easiest payday. Unfortunately, the security for government benefits lags behind many credit cards in many areas of the U.S. By being mindful and alert, you can reduce the chances of being scammed.