Electronic theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits is a growing problem. As of December 20, 2024, New York State is no longer replacing stolen SNAP benefits, making it more critical than ever to protect your EBT card and food stamps.
This guide will provide detailed steps on how to secure your benefits, including how to use the EBT card freeze feature, how to detect skimming devices, and what to do if your benefits are stolen.
Why should I freeze my EBT card when I am not using it?
The EBT card freeze feature is a highly effective tool for preventing unauthorized access to your benefits. When you freeze your card, all transactions, including purchases and balance inquiries, are blocked until you manually unfreeze it. This added security measure ensures that even if thieves obtain your card number and PIN, they cannot make unauthorized purchases. It also prevents scammers from checking your balance through fraudulent inquiries.
While freezing your card does not prevent skimming, it does stop thieves from using stolen card information for unauthorized transactions.
How do I freeze and unfreeze my EBT card?
New York State EBT cardholders can access the freeze feature via the ebtEDGE app (available in Apple App Store and Google Play Store) or the ebtEDGE website.
Steps to freeze your card:
- Open the ebtEDGE app on your phone or go to www.ebtedge.com.
- Log in using your account credentials.
- Navigate to “Account Services.”
- Select “Freeze Card.”
- Confirm the freeze. This will block all transactions, including balance inquiries.
Steps to unfreeze your card:
- Repeat the steps 1 through 3 above, but select “Unfreeze Card.”
- Once unfrozen, you can use your card as usual.
It is highly recommended that you only unfreeze your card right before making a purchase and refreeze it immediately after to minimize exposure to fraud.
What is card skimming?
Card skimming directly copies card and personal identification number (PIN) information from EBT cardholders using a device, known as skimmers, placed on top of a store’s card reading machine. The stolen data is used to access your EBT account and spend your SNAP benefits. Skimming can happen anywhere you swipe your EBT card.
To prevent benefits from being stolen, always inspect card readers before using your EBT card. Card skimmers are designed to blend in with legitimate card readers, making them difficult to detect. However, there are warning signs to watch for.
Skimming devices may appear as bulky overlays on the card reader, have loose or flimsy components, or feature buttons that lack backlighting. The faceplate might feel loose, misaligned, or texturally mismatched. Some skimmers may also block LED indicator lights or partially cover stylus and pen trays. Look for glue marks, damaged or loose parts, and be aware of hidden cameras that could record your information.
To test for a skimmer, gently pull up on the terminal. Skimmers are often flimsy and may detach easily. If you suspect a skimming device, do not use the machine and report it immediately to the HRA Fraud Unit at 718-557-1399.
What additional steps should I take to protect my EBT benefits？
Since New York State will no longer pay back stolen benefits, cardholders must take extra precautions to safeguard their SNAP funds.
Do not share PIN
First and foremost, keep your personal identification number (PIN) private and never share it with anyone you do not want accessing your account. New York State, county agencies, and EBT staff will never ask for your PIN. If someone does, assume it is a scam. To prevent unauthorized use, do not write your PIN anywhere near your card.
If you need someone outside your household to access your EBT benefits on your behalf, contact your local department of social services to designate an authorized representative for your case. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN at a machine, and never allow anyone, including a store cashier, to see you enter it.
Change PIN regularly
Changing your PIN regularly is a way to prevent unauthorized access to your benefits. By updating your PIN after each transaction, you ensure that anyone attempting to steal your funds will no longer have the correct information to access your account. You can change your PIN at most local departments of social services offices, Benefit Access Centers, or by contacting EBT Customer Service at 888-328-6399.
PIN updates can also be made online at www.ebtEDGE.com. It is also important to avoid using easily guessed numbers like “1234” or your birth year.
Monitor your account
Keeping a close watch on your EBT account is crucial for protecting your benefits. Regularly checking your transaction history through the ebtEDGE app or website allows you to spot any suspicious or unfamiliar activity. If you notice unauthorized transactions, report them immediately through EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-6399.
Be aware of phishing scams
Do not respond to emails, texts, or phone calls requesting your EBT card details. New York State agencies will never ask for your PIN or card number via phone, text, or email. If you receive a suspicious message, contact EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-6399.
What should I do if my EBT benefits are stolen?
If you suspect skimming or fraudulent transactions, take immediate action to protect your account.
First, freeze your card immediately. This will prevent further unauthorized use. Next, report the fraud and request a new card by calling EBT Customer Service at 1-888-328-6399. Inform them that your card has been stolen or compromised and request a replacement.
Once you receive your new EBT card, change your PIN right away. Be sure to choose a new PIN that is different from your previous one for added security. Continue to monitor your account regularly for any unauthorized transactions and report any suspicious activity as soon as possible.
If you do not report your card as stolen, it remains compromised, allowing scammers to continue stealing from your account.
