Connecticut (WTNH) – The Department of Human Services warned Connecticut residents who receive SNAP and/or Cash EBT benefits to beware of scams.
According to DSS, residents should be wary of scams at grocery and retail stores across the state that aim to obtain credit, debit or electronic benefit transfer (EBT) information from a card reader . Fraudsters will then create a fake card to steal money or benefits.
In addition to card removals, DSS received reports of a phishing scam in which SNAP recipients receive fraudulent text messages about their DSS benefits. The text message directs them to a phone number that asks them to provide their EBT card number and PIN.
The DSS said these messages do not come from the department as they will not be communicated via text.
To protect against scams, DSS recommends that SNAP recipients change the PIN on their EBT cards immediately as a precaution. It is not necessary to receive a new card to access the benefits; recipients can call to change their PIN at 1-888-328-2666.
If anyone believes they have been the victim of a skimming or phishing scam, they are asked to change their PIN, notify the DSS Benefit Center at 1-855-626-6632, and file a report with the Department of local police.