The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Office of State Inspector General are warning SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients to take extra precautions to protect their benefits from fraud.
With the rise in EBT/SNAP benefit theft, scammers are using data cloning devices (also known as “skimmers”) to steal card information and drain funds from accounts. In response, the Shapiro Administration is urging all SNAP beneficiaries to change their PIN monthly before receiving their benefits.
Change Your PIN
Skimming fraud has been reported throughout Pennsylvania, where criminals install fake card readers that appear normal but secretly steal card details. Once they have the information, they can duplicate EBT cards and withdraw money meant to help families put food on the table.
Dr. Val Arkoosh, DHS Secretary, emphasized the department’s commitment to ensuring SNAP benefits remain available for those who truly need them. While card cloning is a nationwide issue, Pennsylvania is taking proactive measures to combat it.
How to Protect
To reduce the risk of fraud, DHS strongly recommends changing your PIN every month and being cautious when using your EBT card at payment terminals. Always check for unusual devices before swiping.
How to Change
There are multiple ways to update your EBT card PIN safely:
- By phone: Call the DHS EBT Beneficiary Hotline at 1-888-328-7366 (1-888-EBT-PENN), available 24/7.
- Online: Visit ConnectEBT, the DHS EBT contractor’s website, and follow the PIN reset instructions.
- Mobile apps: Change your PIN securely through:
- ConnectEBT app (from Conduent) – Available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
- myCOMPASS PA app – Pennsylvania’s official DHS mobile app, also available on Apple and Google Play.
Security Measures
The DHS has implemented stricter security rules to prevent fraud. These include:
- Blocking the use of simple PINs such as 1234 or 0000.
- Developing a feature that will allow users to lock their accounts if fraud is suspected.
Additionally, SNAP recipients should monitor their benefits and transactions regularly using the myCOMPASS PA app to detect any unauthorized activity.
By staying vigilant and updating your PIN monthly, SNAP beneficiaries can help protect their funds from scammers and ensure that benefits are used for their intended purpose—helping families afford nutritious meals.
FAQs
Why should I change my SNAP PIN monthly?
Changing your PIN monthly helps prevent scammers from accessing your benefits.
How do scammers steal EBT card information?
They use skimmers—fake card readers—to copy card details and drain accounts.
How can I change my EBT card PIN?
You can change it by phone, online, or through the ConnectEBT or myCOMPASS PA apps.
What if I suspect SNAP fraud on my account?
Report it to DHS and monitor transactions through the myCOMPASS PA app.
Are there restrictions on PIN selection?
Yes, simple PINs like 1234 are blocked to improve security.
