Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) is advising Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who use EBT cards to take steps to protect their benefits from skimming fraud before the issuance of May benefits.

There has been an increase in reports of skimming devices attached to card readers across the country. These devices capture card numbers and PINs, enabling thieves to access and spend the benefits, often in different states, before cardholders are aware of the breach.

"This is about taking preventive steps to protect yourself from card skimming," said Janie Cole, DoHS Bureau for Family Assistance Commissioner. "SNAP benefits help put food on the table for thousands of West Virginia families. We want every cardholder to know how to protect their benefits before they are at risk."

The DoHS advises EBT cardholders to follow specific preventive measures to secure their benefits:

1. **Check the Card Reader:** Inspect the card reader for any loose parts, tape, or wires. If anything appears unusual, report it to the store staff before continuing with the transaction.

2. **Change Your PIN Monthly:** Update your PIN at the start of each month before benefits are issued. A stolen card number cannot be used without the new PIN.

3. **Block Out-of-State Transactions:** Use ebtEDGE.com or the FIS ebtEDGE mobile app to block transactions outside the state. This setting can be changed as needed.

In case of suspected card compromise, cardholders should contact:

- Office of EBT: 304-558-4126

- WV Customer Service: 877-716-1212

- FIS Customer Service: 866-545-6502

DoHS will disseminate these reminders via social media and online platforms to reach as many recipients as possible ahead of the May SNAP benefits issuance.

"If your EBT card and PIN are stolen, your benefits can disappear before you even realize what happened," said Jacquelyn Hoppe, Office of EBT Director. "Taking a few quick steps now can save you a lot of frustration later."

For those interested in applying for SNAP, visit www.wvpath.wv.gov, go to the local DoHS office for a paper application, or call 1-866-545-6502 for assistance.