The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) have issued a joint warning to residents about a surge in stolen Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card scams. These scams have been targeting vulnerable populations, including low-income families and individuals relying on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
In recent months, numerous reports have surfaced of EBT cards being stolen and used for unauthorized purchases. The scammers often use tactics such as phishing, skimming, and social engineering to obtain sensitive information, including EBT card numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs).
Understanding the Scams and Protecting Yourself
The most common scam involves a thief stealing an EBT card and then using it to purchase high-value items, such as gift cards, electronics, or other merchandise. In some cases, the scammers may also use the stolen EBT card to make online purchases or withdraw cash from ATMs.
To protect yourself from these scams, it's essential to be aware of the warning signs and take proactive steps to safeguard your EBT card and personal information. Here are some key tips:
- Keep your EBT card and PIN confidential and do not share them with anyone.
- Monitor your EBT account regularly for any suspicious transactions.
- Report any lost or stolen EBT cards to the EBT customer service immediately.
- Be cautious when using ATMs or making online transactions with your EBT card.
Reporting Stolen EBT Cards and Filing a Complaint
If you suspect that your EBT card has been stolen or compromised, report it to the EBT customer service at (866) 512-6226 or (888) 621-1111. You can also contact the Florida Department of Children and Families at (866) 762-2237 or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at (850) 617-7340.
When filing a complaint, be prepared to provide the following information:
| Information Needed | Description |
|---|---|
| EBT Card Number | The 16-digit EBT card number. |
| Date of Incident | The date when the EBT card was stolen or compromised. |
| Description of Incident | A detailed description of the incident, including any suspicious transactions. |
Key Points
- Stolen EBT card scams are on the rise in Florida, targeting vulnerable populations.
- Scammers use tactics such as phishing, skimming, and social engineering to obtain sensitive information.
- To protect yourself, keep your EBT card and PIN confidential, monitor your account regularly, and report any suspicious transactions.
- If you suspect your EBT card has been stolen, report it to the EBT customer service immediately.
- Stay informed about the latest scams and tactics used by scammers to stay ahead of them.
Preventing EBT Card Scams: A Community Effort
Preventing EBT card scams requires a community effort. By spreading awareness and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones, we can minimize the risk of falling victim to these scams.
Here are some ways to get involved:
- Share information with friends and family about the warning signs of EBT card scams.
- Participate in community events and workshops focused on EBT card security and scam prevention.
- Report any suspicious activity to the authorities, including the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Resources and Support
If you or someone you know has been affected by an EBT card scam, there are resources available to provide support and assistance.
Here are some resources:
- Florida Department of Children and Families: (866) 762-2237
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: (850) 617-7340
- EBT Customer Service: (866) 512-6226 or (888) 621-1111
What should I do if I suspect my EBT card has been stolen?
+If you suspect your EBT card has been stolen, report it to the EBT customer service immediately at (866) 512-6226 or (888) 621-1111. You can also contact the Florida Department of Children and Families at (866) 762-2237 or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at (850) 617-7340.
How can I protect my EBT card and personal information?
+To protect your EBT card and personal information, keep your EBT card and PIN confidential, monitor your account regularly, and report any suspicious transactions. Be cautious when using ATMs or making online transactions with your EBT card.
What are the common tactics used by scammers to obtain sensitive information?
+Scammers often use tactics such as phishing, skimming, and social engineering to obtain sensitive information, including EBT card numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs).
By staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and our communities, we can prevent EBT card scams and ensure the security of our personal information.