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SNAP Skimming Concerns on the Rise in Cuyahoga County
Customers are advised to take steps to protect their benefits
CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – The Cuyahoga County Department of Health and Human Services warns residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (SNAP) that electronic benefit or card “skimming” continues to be reported across the County.
Card skimming occurs when a device is placed over a card reader to copy information contained on the card. Once the card information is copied, benefits can be taken electronically from the card by criminals. There has been a significant increase in electronically stolen SNAP benefits reported recently.
Cuyahoga Job and Family Services encourages customers to take proactive measures to protect SNAP benefits from skimming.
“Criminals have found new ways to exploit technology and take benefits from those in our community who are most in need,” said Cuyahoga Job and Family Services Director Kevin Gowan. “Thankfully, there are steps customers can take to protect their benefits from this type of theft.”
Protecting Your Benefits
Below are some suggested tips for protecting your benefits from being stolen.
- Change your SNAP EBT Card PIN just prior to your load date by logging into your online account at connectebt.com or by calling 1-866-386-3071.
- Carefully inspect any card reader before using your card. Theft devices are sometimes placed over the card reader, if a device doesn’t look secure or sticks out, it may be a skimming device.
- Download the ConnectEBT app to your phone to easily lock and unlock your benefits card and keep it locked when not in use. For more information on how to use the app, visit the EBT Card Lock and Unlock Tips provided by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
Please review and share our SNAP EBT and Cash Cards Safety Tips flyer for more information on keeping your benefits safe.
If you believe you are a victim of electronic benefits skimming, it’s important to make a report to HHS so the crime can be investigated. To report theft, you can contact the Cuyahoga County Public Assistance Fraud Hotline at 216-987-6950, or report suspected public assistance fraud online.
