- EBT card holders are losing their cash assistance and SNAP benefits due to skimming fraud at some locations.
- Nike Telus from Tennessee discovered her EBT balance wiped out after a suspicious purchase in the Bronx.
- Fraudsters are reportedly using fake or “spongy” keypads on card machines to capture card information and PINs.
- Businesses like Top Choice Meat Market have been implicated, though owners claim they are victims too.
- Authorities urge benefit cardholders to regularly check their PINs, never share them, and avoid suspicious requests.
EBT cardholders across the country are facing a growing scam that can leave them completely drained of their benefits. In one recent case, Nike Telus, a Tennessee resident, was stunned when her EBT balance vanished after a suspicious transaction in the Bronx.
Authorities say scammers are using skimming devices installed on payment machines to steal SNAP benefits and cash assistance. The devices often feature fake keypads that feel “spongy” or slightly different from genuine machines, allowing fraudsters to capture both card information and PINs.
Businesses are also falling victim. At Top Choice Meat Market, where Telus’ card was reportedly drained, multiple online reviews suggest similar fraud incidents have occurred. The store’s owner insists the thefts are beyond his control.
“I think people are using EBT cards that don’t belong to them,” the owner said. “Your information is private. Your PIN is private. There’s no way I am supposed to know your numbers.” He added that he has reported the allegations to the SNAP program.
Meanwhile, the Department of Social Services urges cardholders to protect themselves by checking their PINs regularly, never sharing card information, and ignoring requests for card details from unknown sources.
With incidents like Telus’ making headlines, authorities warn that vigilance is crucial to prevent further exploitation of cash assistance and SNAP benefits.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
