BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Erie County Department of Social Services announced it is working to address over 700 applications submitted by residents alerting the department of stolen benefits due to EBT skimming.
"This illegal process directly copies card and personal identification number (“PIN”) information from EBT cardholders using a device (skimmers) placed on top of a store's card reading machine. The stolen data is then used to access an individual’s EBT account and spend their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary (TA) cash benefits," a release says.
Alora, from Buffalo, told 7 News she had more than $200 stolen from her EBT card recently. The 24-year-old lives in a shelter, and had to live off donations and $50 in food stamps for three weeks while her card issue was fixed.
"You're already taking benefits from somebody struggling trying to get on their feet," explained Isohie Ogiugo, Friends of Night People Case Manager. "You're stealing from the poor, which is horrible."
The department said EBT cardholders should do the following to protect their benefits:
- Change their PIN immediately, and remember to change it monthly;
- Remember to protect their EBT card and PIN information;
- Monitor their EBT account regularly to watch for unauthorized transactions; and
- If someone believes their benefits have been stolen, please immediately report the card stolen by calling 888‐328‐6399, visiting www.connectEBT.com or through the connectEBT mobile app.
The department said this is a nationwide issue that has impacted clients across Western New York in recent weeks.
You can click here for more information or call the Social Services information line at 716-858-8000.
