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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    Scam & Fraud Alerts

    Pennsylvanians who suspect benefits fraud should call 1-844-DHS-TIPS (1-844-347-8477)

    Protect Your Benefits!

    New EBT Card Lock Feature is Available Through ConnectEBT

    Pennsylvania is proud to offer a new Card Lock safety feature now available on the ConnectEBT website and mobile app, through our Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) vendor, Conduent. This feature allows you to lock your EBT card when not in use to protect your SNAP and cash benefits from skimming and theft. Locking your EBT card blocks all purchases, balance inquiries, and transactions to keep your funds secure. You should always Lock your card when it’s not in use, then simply Unlock your card before making a purchase!  You can also use the Auto Re-Lock feature to automatically Re-Lock your card in 30, 60, or 90 minutes after unlocking.

    EBT Card Lock

    Don’t forget: You can also download the official myCOMPASS PA mobile app for free, which allows users to view their EBT balance and transactions, update personal information, view eNotices, submit documents, and more! 

    Locking your EBT card is simple:

    Download the free, secure ConnectEBT mobile app or navigate to www.connectebt.com and create a User Account to get started! 

    Select the Lock/Unlock Card Button on the ConnectEBT app or website home screen 

    1. Select your lock preference: 
      • Lock My Card Everywhere will prevent all types of purchases, including online and at stores 
      • Lock My Card Outside of PA will prevent all purchases at stores outside of PA but will still allow all online purchases 
    2. Click OK 

    Done Shopping?
    Simply re-lock your card or use the Auto Re-Lock feature to make protecting your benefits on-the-go even easier. 

    EBT Home Screen Home Screen with Lock Selection
    EBT Lock/Unlock Card options including: Card number; Current Status; Lock/Unlock your card. Lock/Unlock Options
    EBT auto re-lock options include: No; Re-lock my card in 30 minutes; Re-lock my card in 60 minutes; Re-lock my card in 90 minutes. Note: Re-lock times are approximate. It may take a few extra minutes to re-lock your card depending on system availability. Auto Re-Lock Options
    Download EBT Locking Feature Flyer (PDF)

    Below are a list of potential threats, scams, and frauds targeting benefit recipients, of which we are currently aware.

    New scams are being hatched all the time, so here are tips to keep you and your accounts safe:

    At ATMs and In Stores

    • Always have your EBT card with you when you’re shopping – SNAP and other benefits should never be used without your card present.
    • Learn how to spot skimming devices and check ATMs and retail card readers for skimming devices before using your card.
    • Do not share your PIN with others
    • Change your PIN regularly, at least monthly right before your payment date, to keep your card safe

    Online

    • Only use your card on legitimate, secure sites and apps that state they accept EBT cards.
    • Keep your device(s) updated and install a dependable anti-virus program.
    • Create strong and unique passwords for accounts, especially if they store your payment information.
    • Avoid making purchases and using sensitive information online when connected to public Wi-Fi.
    • Be vigilant about emails or texts that request payment, fund transfers, or personal and/or account information, especially if they demand immediate action.
    • Never give out personal or account information over the phone, in email, or via text messages.

    Stay alert and monitor your account so you can report fraud and suspicious activity immediately.

    • It is a good idea to check your EBT balance and purchase history regularly to make sure there are no unexpected purchases or balance inquiries. We also recommend changing your PIN monthly right before your payment date. You can easily monitor your card through the only free, official myCOMPASS PA mobile app.
    • If you have questions or believe your account has been compromised, immediately contact your local County Assistance Office.
      • If you believe theft has occurred, the CAO will cancel your current EBT card and issue you a replacement EBT card. This is a preventative measure as just changing your PIN may not prevent future theft from occurring since the perpetrator still has your active card number. Sending a new card will cancel the previous card number as an extra layer of protection for your benefits.

    Recognize Skimming Devices

    Were you a victim of skimming or other EBT theft?

    Unfortunately, due to the end of Congressional authorization, benefits stolen via card skimming, fraud, or other electronic theft after December 20, 2024, cannot be reissued.

    If your benefits are stolen electronically make sure to: 

    •  REPORT it to:
      • your local law enforcement agency
    • REQUEST a new EBT card through:
    • FIND immediate food assistance by: