Fraud targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been on the rise across the United States. Scammers are using techniques like card cloning, phishing, and skimming to steal benefits from vulnerable recipients. This article explores how these scams work, the impact on those relying on SNAP, and ways to protect against fraud.
What is SNAP Fraud?
SNAP fraud happens when scammers steal money from people’s SNAP accounts by targeting their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These EBT cards are used like debit or credit cards to buy food and essential items. However, this convenience makes them a target for scammers, who can clone the card or steal its information using special devices.
SNAP Fraud Case in Ohio
A recent case in Ohio highlights the severity of this issue. Jason Nichols, a SNAP recipient, discovered that scammers cloned his EBT card and used it in stores far from his home in Illinois. They stole $291 worth of benefits, which Nichols desperately needed to feed his family. This case underscores how damaging SNAP fraud can be for individuals and families.
How Scammers Target SNAP Recipients
Many scams involve skimming devices. These are placed on card readers and copy the information from an EBT card when it’s swiped. In Ohio alone, SNAP fraud incidents increased by 368% from 2021 to 2022, making it a growing concern across the country. Even though Ohio has been heavily affected, states like New York, Illinois, Maryland, and Texas are also seeing a sharp rise in SNAP fraud.
National Impact of SNAP Fraud
The issue is widespread. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported nearly 177,000 cases of SNAP fraud nationwide. New York had the most reported cases, with over 34,000 instances, while other states like Illinois and Texas were also severely impacted.
Steps Being Taken to Combat SNAP Fraud
Efforts to combat SNAP fraud have resulted in arrests and legislative actions in various states. In New York, lawmakers are proposing to make SNAP fraud a class D felony and to conduct a comprehensive study to understand how to prevent scams.
Meanwhile, Texas authorities arrested six people involved in a large-scale food stamp fraud operation. Despite these efforts, scams continue to rise, leading to a pressing need for more robust protections.
How to Protect Yourself from SNAP Fraud
To protect your SNAP benefits, you should follow these steps:
- Create a Strong PIN: Choose a unique PIN for your EBT card that’s hard to guess.
- Change Your PIN Regularly: Update your PIN every month, especially before your benefits are deposited.
- Keep Card Information Private: Never share your EBT card number or PIN. Government agencies will not ask for this information.
- Check Card Readers: Inspect card readers for any signs of tampering before using them.
- Cover the Keypad: When entering your PIN, shield the keypad to prevent others from seeing it.
SNAP fraud is a growing issue that requires awareness and proactive steps. By staying informed and taking protective measures, you can help ensure that your benefits remain safe and are used as intended. As scammers become more sophisticated, vigilance becomes key to safeguarding the vital financial support millions of Americans rely on.
What is SNAP fraud?
SNAP fraud is when scammers steal benefits from a recipient’s EBT card by cloning, skimming, or phishing for personal information.
How do scammers steal SNAP benefits?
Scammers use devices like skimmers to copy card information or clone EBT cards to access funds illegally.
How can I protect my EBT card from fraud?
You can protect your card by creating a strong, unique PIN, changing it regularly, and never sharing your card details with anyone.
Has SNAP fraud been increasing recently?
Yes, SNAP fraud has been on the rise across the U.S., with significant increases in states like Ohio, New York, and Texas.
What should I do if I suspect fraud on my EBT card?
Contact your state’s SNAP office immediately to report any suspicious activity and request a replacement card.
