New Bills to Protect SNAP Users from EBT Theft and Fraud

EBT Theft Spike in New York

• 🎯 New York City is experiencing a significant increase in SNAP benefits theft, impacting tens of thousands of households since 2022.
• ⚠️ The crime, often occurring through skimming or copying EBT card information, has left many beneficiaries distressed and scared.
• 📈 Officials report that 20% of all SNAP benefit crimes nationally happen in New York State.

Proposed Legislative Solutions

• 💡 Two new bills are being introduced by Congressman Dan Goldman to address EBT theft.
• 💰 The first bill aims to create a fund to reimburse legitimate victims of EBT theft.
• 💳 The second bill proposes adding security chips to EBT cards, similar to credit and debit cards, to prevent future theft.

Protecting Yourself from Skimming

• 🔍 Inspect card machines and ATMs for overlays, glue marks, or damaged parts that could indicate tampering.
• 📸 Be cautious of hidden cameras that might be used to capture card information.
• 🛡️ Shield the PIN pad with your hand when entering your PIN.
• 🔄 Change your PIN regularly and never share it with anyone.