Threat Alert: Scammers Seeking to Take Advantage of EBT and SNAP Benefits

Victims Speak Out: Trumbull County SNAP Recipients Express Dissatisfaction Over Benefits Scams

Authorities Alert SNAP Users to Growing Skimming Scams and Ask Them to Increase Security

A recent upsurge in fraud targeting SNAP benefits in Trumbull County, Ohio, has left beneficiaries like Charles Burns feeling helpless and irritated. Burns describes how he was shocked to see unauthorized payments on his EBT card while trying to buy food. Burns had over $500 in SNAP benefits stolen. In a recent article in Smart News, according to authorities, these crimes are the result of sophisticated skimming tactics, in which thieves use credit card machines to duplicate card information. The necessity of being vigilant is emphasized by John Gargano of Trumbull County Jobs & Family Services, who advises benefit recipients to use strong PINs that are changed regularly, lock their EBT cards when not in use, and closely inspect card readers for any indications of manipulation.

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Statewide Concern: Ohio Has Seen $1.4 Million in Thefts of SNAP Benefits Since October 2022

A state-wide alarm has been raised by the 3,400 instances of SNAP benefit theft that Ohio has experienced since October 2022, with losses totaling $1.4 million. The importance of taking preventative steps is emphasized by officials. Examples include changing PINs before making a deposit, never exchanging card numbers or information, and checking card readers for possible skimming devices. Authorities advise people to be cautious and take preventative measures to protect their advantages from shady actors despite the difficulties presented by more complex schemes.

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