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  • Geebo 8:00 am on May 6, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , SNAP   

    The hidden crisis of how scammers prey on vulnerable welfare recipients 

    By Greg Collier

    In our interconnected world, where technology and communication thrive, the specter of scams looms ominously. Contrary to the common perception that only the affluent fall prey, the truth is stark. Scammers operate with ruthless efficiency, targeting the most financially vulnerable among us. No one, regardless of their financial status, is immune to these dangers. 

    In December, a 70-year-old California woman found herself in an unthinkable situation at the checkout line of a grocery store. Despite having diligently saved her monthly benefits from the federal food assistance program, she was told she had only $6 in her account. What she discovered next was that someone had gained unauthorized access to her food stamp card, siphoning off over $4,000. Her ordeal is just one example of a pervasive issue affecting countless welfare recipients across the country.

    For individuals like this, who rely on public benefits such as food stamps and cash assistance, the threat of exploitation is relentless. Scammers employ illegal skimming devices to lift payment card data from unsuspecting victims, using the information to create fake payment cards and drain their accounts. These schemes target various card-based payments, including welfare programs that use electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards.

    Unlike credit and debit cards issued by banks, EBT cards lack fraud protection, leaving recipients vulnerable to digital theft. The outdated technology of EBT cards, which lack chip technology, exacerbates this vulnerability. Despite the prevalence of skimming schemes, the transition to more secure payment structures has been slow, hindered by logistical challenges and a lack of federal mandate.

    Victims of skimming often endure days without groceries, resorting to food banks, skipping meals, or borrowing money to survive. The emotional toll is equally devastating, with victims facing anxiety and fear over their financial security. Many are left without recourse for their losses.

    Before swiping your EBT card at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals, inspect the card reader for any signs of tampering or unusual attachments. Look for loose parts, adhesive residue, or anything that seems out of place. If something looks suspicious, use a different machine or report it to the store or relevant authorities.

    When entering your PIN at an ATM or checkout terminal, shield the keypad with your hand or body to prevent anyone from observing or recording your PIN.

    Regularly review your EBT card account statements and transaction history for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. Report any discrepancies or unauthorized transactions to the issuing agency or bank immediately.

    Consider changing your PIN regularly, especially if you suspect your card may have been compromised. Choose a unique and strong PIN that is not easily guessable.

    If your EBT card is lost or stolen, report it to the issuing agency or bank immediately to have the card deactivated and prevent unauthorized use. Prompt reporting can help minimize the risk of fraudulent transactions.

     
  • Geebo 8:00 am on September 28, 2020 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , SNAP,   

    Food Stamp scam affecting the country 

    Food Stamp scam affecting the country

    The current pandemic has seen the meteoric rise of a number of original scams on a never seen before basis. The majority of these scams have targeted those who have been negatively affected economically by the pandemic. At first, it was the scammers who were trying to steal your economic impact payment. This was quickly followed up by scammers applying for unemployment benefits in every state by using stolen identities. Now, a new nationwide scam has emerged once again targeting those who are the most financially vulnerable in our society.

    States from Pennsylvania to Hawaii are reporting about a text message scam that’s promising victims SNAP benefits. You may know SNAP better under its former name of food stamps. The scammers are sending text messages stating that the recipient is eligible for SNAP benefits even though they may not have applied for them. With so many people facing economic hardships in the country, this scam has the potential to claim a record number of victims. While some who have never had to apply for SNAP may think it’s relatively easy to get these benefits, the reverse is actually quite true. So if someone who is desperate to receive additional food benefits receives this text message there is great potential that they could fall for this scam.

    More than likely, the scammers are after one of two things. They either want your personal information to steal your identity, or they want a payment disguised as a ‘processing fee’.

    The states being affected by this scam have issued warnings that the state will never approach anyone randomly with the offer of SNAP. If you have applied for SNAP, you’ll always receive your approval in the mail. If you receive one of these texts, it’s best that you just delete the text. However, if you have questions or concerns about your SNAP benefits, you should contact your local SNAP office.

     
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