Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) fraud is an escalating issue, leading Nevadans to take additional security measures. The Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS) is encouraging recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to lock their EBT cards when not in use. This preventive step comes as the federal government's temporary approval to refund stolen benefits due to skimming and cloning is set to expire on September 30, as reported by the DWSS.
To guard against theft, users are urged to utilize the DWSS-approved EBT Edge app or its corresponding website. Through the app, recipients can freeze, or lock, their cards to prevent misuse, block online and out-of-state transactions, and change their Personal Identification Number (PIN) monthly. Notably, the DWSS recommends avoiding simple PINs, such as birthdates, or sequential numbers, to enhance security.
In the event of fraudulent activity, Nevadans can report theft up until September 30. The DWSS provides various reporting channels: in-person at welfare offices, via phone at (702) 486-1875 for Southern Nevada or (775) 448-5211 for Northern Nevada, email at [email protected], or through the State of Nevada website. It is crucial that claim forms are completed within 10 business days of the fraudulent incident.
The DWSS also emphasizes strong personal security practices such as never sharing your PIN, keeping EBT card information secret, and regularly checking account transactions for unauthorized activities. They warn against responding to unsolicited communications that request sensitive EBT or PIN information. As September 30 approaches, recipients of SNAP are being reminded of these practices to mitigate any potential losses that could hit the pockets of those who can least afford it.
