EBT Fraud: What to Watch For
- Purple
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
If you use an EBT card for SNAP benefits, protecting your account is more important than ever. Criminals have found ways to steal EBT funds through scams, skimming devices, and phishing messages—and in many cases, stolen benefits aren’t replaced.
In this post, we’ll explain:
How EBT fraud happens
Common scams targeting SNAP recipients
Red flags to watch for
How to protect your EBT card and PIN
What to do if you suspect fraud
How Purple helps you stay alert
1. How EBT Fraud Happens
EBT cards work like regular debit cards—and that means they can be compromised just like one.
The most common types of EBT fraud include:
Card skimming: Devices installed on card readers steal your card and PIN info
Phishing: Fake texts or calls trick you into giving up your EBT number
Card cloning: Stolen info is copied to a new card and used elsewhere
Fake websites or apps: Scammers set up fake portals to “check your balance” and steal credentials
Unlike a lost debit card, EBT fraud is harder to resolve—and reimbursements aren’t guaranteed in many states.
2. Common Scams Targeting EBT Users
Scammers often target SNAP recipients using:
Fake balance check texts asking for your card number
Spoofed calls pretending to be your state’s SNAP office
“Urgent” messages claiming your benefits are frozen or expiring
Bogus websites that look like EBT portals
Remember: Your state will never ask for your full card number or PIN over text, phone, or email.
3. Red Flags to Watch For
Stay alert for:
Unfamiliar purchases on your transaction history
Card readers that feel loose, bulky, or tampered with
Messages asking you to “verify” your EBT info
Balance changes when you haven’t shopped
Unexpected calls from “customer support” or the “SNAP hotline”
If something feels off—don’t swipe, tap, or respond.
4. How to Protect Your EBT Card and PIN
You can reduce your risk with these steps:
Check your balance regularly using a trusted site or app
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN
Change your PIN often (especially if you use the same store frequently)
Avoid swiping at unfamiliar or unattended card readers
Don’t share your card number or PIN with anyone—even friends or family
If possible, avoid using your EBT card at gas stations or ATMs where skimming is more common.
5. What to Do If You Suspect Fraud
If you think your EBT card was compromised:
Call your state’s EBT customer service line immediately
Report the issue and request a replacement card
File a fraud claim (your state may provide a form or online option)
Save all receipts and screenshots
Some states offer limited reimbursements, but time matters—report it right away.
6. How Purple Helps You Stay Alert
Purple makes it easy to track your EBT balance and spot problems fast.
With Purple, you can:
Link your EBT card to monitor deposits and spending
Receive alerts when benefits arrive
Track unusual activity across your checking and EBT accounts
Store receipts or notes if you need to file a dispute
Stay organized with one app designed for people who receive benefits
The sooner you catch an issue, the better your chance of stopping fraud in its tracks.