Prevent EBT Theft: Tips from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) is advising Ohio SNAP recipients to protect their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards from skimming, phishing, and cloning scams. Practicing PIN safety, knowing how to spot suspicious activity, and using card lock and notification features can all help prevent EBT theft.
Ohioans can protect their benefits with the following tips
PIN Safety
- Keep the PIN and card number confidential.
- Never share these numbers if asked through email, text message, or on the phone from an unknown caller. ODJFS does not request this information from its recipients.
- Change the PIN monthly before each scheduled deposit.
- Don’t use an easy PIN such as 1234 or 1111
Skimmer Protection
Criminals are targeting Ohio SNAP EBT and cash assistance users by installing skimming devices on store card readers. These skimmers allow them to capture a user’s card and PINs without the user knowing.
Card skimming can happen to anyone who uses a credit, debit, or EBT card. Skimmers can be placed on point-of-sale card readers at stores.
Avoiding Skimmers
- Look for added equipment on or near the device. Pinhole cameras are sometimes installed to capture customers entering their PIN. Cover the keypad when entering the PIN.
- Criminals may place phony PIN keypads over the originals. Pull at the edges of the keypad before entering the PIN. Do not use if the pad surface looks raised or if there is tape or glue residue on the edges.
- Check to see if the card reader sticks out or doesn’t seem secure. Any loose or protruding parts are suspect.
Related Article: Ohio SNAP EBT Cardholder Discounts and Perks
EBT Card Alerts
Ohioans can use Card alerts for notification when:
- Their card is used to make a purchase, return, or deposit
- Changes are made to their account.
EBT Card Lock and Unlock
Ohioans can use the new Card Lock/Unlock feature to secure their food benefits. Whenever shopping, use the ConnectEBT app to unlock the card and lock it again after checking out. It’s that simple!
Users can also lock and unlock a card with the online portal.
Avoid using Apps other than ConnectEBT to protect personal information.
Additional Tips to Stop Scammers
- Regularly review card statements for any unusual transactions.
- Do not share or send photos of the card to anyone for any reason.
Fraud Services
If any SNAP recipient believes they may have fallen victim to a skimming or phishing scam, they should change the EBT PIN immediately or cancel and replace the EBT card by calling 1-866-386-3071 and notifying their local County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS).
If an EBT benefits card is suspected to have been accessed or used without consent, report it online.
Related Article: 7 Tips on How to Avoid Rental Listing Scams
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