Delaware Woman’s EBT Card Emptied by Fraudulent Call, Leaving Her Without Food Assistance
State Department Replaces $619,000 in Stolen SNAP Benefits Amid Rising Fraud Cases
According to CBS NEWS, in Sussex County, Delaware Julie Ebeling experienced a troubling situation when her EBT card was completely emptied leaving her without the food assistance she relies on. Ebeling discovered the theft while attempting to buy groceries last week. She had been deceived into sharing her account information after receiving a fake call that seemed to come from the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). The scammers pretending to be official representatives used her details to access and spend her benefits in New York City far from her home. Ebeling reported the theft to the local social services office and is still waiting for a new card and the replacement benefits she needs.
The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is working hard to address the issue of stolen SNAP benefits. So far in 2024 the department has replaced about $619,000 worth of stolen benefits. Since the replacement process began on December 1, 2023 they have managed around 1,500 reports of stolen benefits resolving roughly 1,470 cases. Typically it takes about 10 business days to replace stolen benefits but recent increases in fraud cases have led to some delays. The department has made it clear that it never requests EBT card numbers or PINs over the phone and is focused on improving security and speeding up the response process.
READ ALSO: Social Security On The Brink: Can Trump And Harris Find A Solution?
Delaware EBT Card Scam: $619,000 in Stolen Benefits, 1,500 Reports in 2024, as Authorities Investigate Organized Financial Crime-Beware! (PHOTO: WV.gov)
U.S. Secret Service Investigates Surge in EBT Fraud Linked to Advanced Scams
The U.S. Secret Service is investigating these crimes as part of a larger trend of organized financial crime. Michael Centrella, the special agent in charge, noted that the rise in EBT fraud is linked to more advanced scams such as phishing and card skimming. The Secret Service is working on tackling these issues and supports the introduction of chip cards to increase security for public assistance programs. As financial crime methods evolve, the Secret Service and other agencies continue to work on protecting people from these types of fraud and improving overall security.
READ ALSO: Foot Foul: Smelly Feet Lead To Shocking Father-Son Shooting In Iowa
