The Albany County Department of Social Services has received reports of SNAP recipients’ benefits being skimmed. Skimming occurs when a device that is illegally installed inside of a card reader terminal captures card data and record cardholders’ PIN entries.  Skimming can also occur if a store has installed a “fraudulent EBT card point of sale machine,” which is much harder to detect and often not known until your benefits have been stolen right after your next benefit upload. 

The NYS Office of Temporary & Disability Assistance (OTDA) has released the ConnectEBT app to help secure your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card and protect yourself from scam-related theft. The lock feature will prevent benefits (Cash Assistance, SNAP & HEAP), from being accessed, as well as prevent purchases, balance inquiries and most other transactions until the card is unlocked. This app is available on both the Android or Apple app store or can be accessed through the website https://www.connectebt.com/nyebtclient/.

In addition to using ConnectEBT here are some other tips to help keep your card safe:

• Change Your PIN frequently and avoid using the same PIN for multiple accounts.
• Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized charges by calling the number on the back of the card.
• Lock your card immediately after use. 
• Inspect Card Readers Before Use:
• Before making a purchase, take a moment to examine the card reader.
• Look for any loose or suspicious components.
• Ensure the keypad and card reader slot are securely attached.
• Avoid Using Tampered Devices:
• If any part of the card reader feels unattached or odd, do not use it.
• Immediately report your findings to the police or your local Department of Social Services to prevent potential fraud.
• Spread Awareness:
• Share these safety tips with friends and family who have EBT cards.
• Educating others helps safeguard their benefits as well

“The rise in SNAP benefit theft, particularly through skimming devices, is deeply concerning. Criminals are preying on hardworking families who rely on this assistance to put food on the table. I urge all Albany County residents to take the proper precautions and if something seems suspicious, report it immediately,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.

“It is deplorable that criminals are continuing to use card skimming devices to steal SNAP benefits from our Albany County residents. For SNAP households who rely on their monthly benefits to buy food for themselves and their families, discovering in the checkout line that they have no SNAP benefits left to pay for their groceries, is extremely distressing.  I strongly encourage SNAP recipients to use ConnectEBT to lock and unlock their card and also change your PIN after each time you utilize your benefits.” said Albany County Department of Social Services Commissioner Erin M. Stachewicz

New York State is no longer replacing stolen SNAP benefits so it is vital that recipients remain vigilant about protecting their EBT card from theft/fraud. If you believe your benefits have been skimmed, make a report to your local police department and reach out to the Albany County Department of Social Services by dialing (518) 447-7300 so you can request a replacement of your EBT Card.