PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Illinois Department of Human Services is sharing what steps those receiving SNAP benefits should take to protect themselves from scammers.
The IDHS announced that skimming devices were found on ATMs and card readers in the Peoria area that scammers used to capture card information. The scammers will often use the EBT benefits in the early hours of the day they are issued.
IDHS said they are working to deactivate and replace cards as the skimmers are identified.
You can take steps to protect your card at the Illinois Link Card Website and the ebtEDGE mobile app where you can:
- Freeze and unfreeze your card.
- Change you pin frequently, changing it before your issuance date each month helps protect your benefits.
- Block out-of-state and internet transactions.
- Do not share your pin or card with others.
If your EBT benefits were stolen after Oct. 1, 2022, you can file a replacement claim online, submit a claim at a local Family Community Resource Center, or by calling (800) 843-6154.
Some of the victims might also qualify for relief through Illinois’ Crisis Assistance Program.
