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    EBT Skimming

    Learn more about skimming, how to protect your benefits, and what to do if your benefits are stolen.

    Report public benefits theft to OSIG by calling 1-800-932-0582.

    Learn about other public benefits scams

    What is Skimming

    Skimming happens when illegal devices are installed on point-of-sale (POS) machines and are designed to steal consumer’s financial information, money, or benefits. Skimming has been on the rise and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (formerly food stamps) recipients are often a target. SNAP benefits are appealing to criminals because Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are not chip-enabled making them an easy target. 

    Thieves use a skimming device to copy EBT card information. They then use that information to make fake EBT cards and purchase food and beverages with the stolen SNAP benefits.

     Report EBT Skimming 

    Report skimming to OSIG by calling  1-800-932-0582.

    How to Recognize a Skimming Device

    Skimming devices, often called skimmers, are designed to blend in and deceive customers, but there are ways to identify a fraudulent device. 

    • Observe the size. Skimming devices are often placed over the legitmate card reader. Making them larger than legitmate card readers. 
    • Skimming devices are often attached with glue or tape. Pull at the edges of the keypad before entering your PIN.
    • Look for security stickers. Some legitimate devices may have a security label or holographic decal on the front or top of the card reader. 
    Image comparing a legitimate point-of-sale device with a skimming device. The image above shows the slight differences between a skimming device and legitimate card reader. The device on the left is a skimmer. The edges are larger than the legitimate device shown on the right. These subtle differences are designed to trick consumers. Image Source: Ingenico.

    How to Protect Your Benefits

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    Lock Your Card

    1. Download the free, secure ConnectEBT mobile app or navigate to www.connectebt.com and create a User Account to get started!
    2. Select the Lock/Unlock Card Button on the ConnectEBT app or website home screen 
    3. 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 
    4. Click OK 

    Lock your EBT card when not in use

    Check Your Account

    Regularly check your EBT account for any unusual transactions and report it to your CAO. 

    The ConnectEBT mobile app is the safest way to manage your benefits. Download the ConnectEBT app or navigate to www.connectebt.com and create a User Account to get started!

    Protect your PIN
    • Change your PIN often especially right before your payment date. Scammers tend to steal benefits the morning you receive them. 
    • NEVER share your PIN or card number, even with someone you trust. Cover the keypad when you are entering your PIN number while making a purchase.
    • Avoid simple PINS like 1111, 1234, or 9876 as they are easy to guess.

    Change Your PIN by Phone

    DHS' EBT Recipient Hotline is available at 1-888-EBT-PENN (1-888-328-7366) and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    Change Your PIN Online

    Users can change their PIN online through DHS’ EBT contractor, Conduent, via their website.

    Visit ConnectEBT.com

    Change your PIN on a Mobile App

    Users can change their PIN online through Conduent’s secure ConnectEBT app and DHS' myCOMPASS PA mobile app.

    ConnectEBT on Apple             

    ConnectEBT on GooglePlay

    myCOMPASS PA on Apple

    myCOMPASS PA on GooglePlay

    What to do if your Benefits are Stolen

    If you believe your SNAP benefits were stolen, immediately contact your County Assistance Office (CAO). The CAO will be able to issue you a new card. Secondly contact the Office of State Inspector General’s fraud tipline at 1-800-932-0582 to report the crime.