A growing wave of Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft is leaving many Arkansans—especially the most vulnerable—without access to the funds they rely on for groceries. According to recent reports, scammers are stealing money from EBT accounts without the recipient’s knowledge and spending those funds in other states, often before victims even realize their benefits are gone.
How Are Scammers Accessing EBT Funds?
Criminals use several deceptive tactics to gain access to EBT accounts, including:
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Skimming Devices: These are covertly installed at retailer checkout machines. When a customer swipes their card, the device captures the card’s information, including PIN data.
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Impersonation Scams: Scammers posing as government officials may contact SNAP recipients, often near the end of the month, threatening to cut off benefits unless personal information is “verified.”
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Phishing Attacks: These involve fake emails or text messages claiming a recipient’s PIN has been compromised. Victims are then tricked into providing their login or card information.
These schemes often lead to funds being drained and spent quickly—sometimes across state lines—before the cardholder has a chance to use them.
Who’s at Risk?
Anyone with an EBT card is a potential target. The Arkansas Department of Human Services warns that vigilance is the best defense. Officials recommend that cardholders take the following steps:
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Protect Your PIN: Never share your PIN and choose a number that’s not easily guessed. Changing your PIN regularly adds another layer of security.
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Inspect Card Readers: Before swiping, examine the card reader for any unusual attachments or signs of tampering.
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Monitor Account Activity: Check your EBT balance and transaction history frequently. Report any suspicious or unauthorized charges immediately.
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Limit Online Use: Avoid using your EBT card for online transactions when possible, as these can be more susceptible to fraud.
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Ignore Unsolicited Communications: Government agencies will never ask for your EBT PIN via text or email. Be cautious of any such messages.
What to Do If You’re a Victim
If you believe your SNAP benefits have been stolen:
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Report the fraud to your local SNAP office immediately.
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File a police report to create an official record of the theft.
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Notify the Arkansas Department of Human Services by visiting ar.gov/snapfraud.
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Contact the Office of the Arkansas Attorney General by calling (501) 682-2007, emailing [email protected], or submitting a complaint online at arkansasag.gov/file-a-complaint.
Officials continue to work on expanding protections and improving systems to detect fraud. However, they stress that awareness and quick action are the best defenses in keeping your benefits—and your family—safe from theft.
