Proposed Legislation Aims to Strengthen Cybersecurity Measures for SNAP Benefits
Proposed Legislation Aims to Bolster SNAP Benefit Security and Combat Cyber Theft
In a bid to safeguard SNAP benefits from cyber theft, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon alongside Senators John Fetterman from Pennsylvania and Bill Cassidy from Louisiana, has introduced the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act. This comes in response to widespread incidents where criminals exploit vulnerabilities in the systems cybersecurity to steal tens of millions of SNAP benefits. The proposed bill aims to update regulations to ensure SNAP cards feature advanced anti fraud technology making them resistant to cloning.
Under the proposed legislation the USDA would be tasked with issuing updated regulations mandating the use of chip enabled SNAP cards, replacing the outdated magnetic stripe technology. States would receive funding to transition to chip enabled cards within two years with magnetic stripe cards phased out within four years. Additionally, a grant program would be established to provide upgraded payment machines to small grocery stores in underserved areas. States would also be required to offer expedited no-fee replacements for stolen or malfunctioning SNAP cards and provide accessible user interfaces for managing EBT accounts.
SNAP Fraud Reduction -Oregon, Pennsylvania and Louisiana Senators Introduce Bill (PHOTO: New Orleans City Business)
Lawmakers Rally to Fortify SNAP Benefit Security Amid Rising Cyber Threats
The move comes amid growing concerns over the financial impact of SNAP benefit theft and its implications for vulnerable individuals. By aligning SNAP cards with modern chip technology lawmakers aim to enhance security and reduce the risk of fraud. Similar measures have been implemented in other federal programs, such as Social Security and Veterans benefits underscoring the importance of protecting public assistance funds from cyber threats.
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