1,800 Rhode Island SNAP users had EBT cards skimmed to zero. Funds gone. Secure cards now.

The Rhode Island Department of Human Services Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been the focus of card skimming fraud activity over the last week. Approximately 1,800 customers using EBT cards in the Providence, Cranston, and Pawtucket area were affected.

While the investigation into this continues, DHS believes these devices have been located and removed. Current dollar amounts believed to be skimmed represent approximately $500,000.

Card holders will not receive payment for the funds stolen off their cards.

DHS strongly recommends all EBT card users follow the important safety precautions outlined below as cases of fraud continue to increase here in Rhode Island and across the country.

Skimming is a process where a device that looks nearly identical to a credit card machine is attached to a store checkout payment machine. When someone swipes their card, the skimming device gains access to their account information. It is believed the majority of these skimming activities took place at one location. As this is an ongoing investigation, the location cannot be identified.

“I recognize the level of concern, frustration, and uncertainty this can cause for our SNAP community. In addition, the recent end of the federal reimbursement of stolen funds has created further complications for customers,” said DHS Director Kimberly Merolla-Brito. “I appreciate the hard work of our State and federal partners as we continue to investigate this immediate issue. I can’t encourage beneficiaries enough to be sure and take the important steps outlined below to maximize the security and day-to-day protections necessary to safeguard your EBT account.”

As noted, the issue of EBT fraud continues to be on the rise, both nationally and locally. While DHS works vigilantly to help safeguard these benefits for Rhode Islanders, we are reminding the community about important steps to help protect their EBT cards and benefits. If you believe you are a victim of EBT fraud you can report it to DHS at 1-855.697.4347.

• Change your PIN frequently and check your account balance regularly. 

• Please do not share your PIN. Also, be aware that DHS will never ask for your PIN or EBT card number. 

• If you need assistance changing your PIN call ebtEdge at 1-888-979-9939. When you call, enter your card number at the prompt, listen to your balance, and after that message plays you will be directed to the main menu and receive a prompt for the pin change option. You can also log on to www.ebtedge.com [ebtedge.com] or the ebtEdge mobile app for enhanced EBT Card security options including protecting benefits by freezing cards when they’re not in use. Additional information can also be found at https://dhs.ri.gov. 

• Specifically, freezing your benefits card provides the highest level of customer protection. The detailed instructions for this process are included in the link above but simply ensures your card cannot be accessed at times when it is not in use. It does require action from the customer both before and after any transaction to lock and unlock your card.

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries who believe they may have been targeted by fraud can contact DOA’s Office of Internal Audit, Fraud Detection and Prevention Unit by visiting the Office of Internal Audit website and submitting a Fraud Allegation Form (https://omb.ri.gov/internal-audit/fraud-hotline/fraud-allegation-form).

For additional information and to access the appropriate forms to notify DHS visit https://dhs.ri.gov/resources. Local police should be contacted first only in cases where EBT cards are physically stolen.

A detailed list of community resources can be found here: https://rifoodbank.org/find-food/ – Additional program information: https://www.farmfreshri.org/programs/farmers-markets/bonus-bucks/