EBT Fraud Alert – November 2023 | State of Hawaii Department of Human Services Updates

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has received reports of fraudulent transactions statewide, but the reports are largely concentrated on the island of Oahu in the urban Honolulu area. What should I do if I suspect a fraudulent transaction has occurred with my EBT card? -DHS encourages all Financial or SNAP clients to be proactive and check their EBT account for unusual transactions. -Please visit the DHS Processing Center (PC) nearest to you to report any fraudulent transaction and to request a replacement card. A list of DHS Processing Centers statewide can be found online at: https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/blog/processing-centers-and-first-to-work-units/. Can DHS replace my benefits if they were stolen? -Clients who report lost benefits due to a fraudulent transaction must report the lost benefits to DHS and may request replacement of their SNAP benefit. -Congress passed a law in late 2022 to help SNAP participants who are victims of card skimming, cloning and other similar methods of activity. The law allows for the replacement of benefits stolen through these methods in limited circumstances. -More information about addressing stolen SNAP benefits is available at: https://fns.usda.gov/snap/stolen-benefits. Helpful Tips and Resources -Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized changes. You may check EBT balances through one of three options: 1. Go to https://ebtEDGE.com 2. Use the ebtEDGE mobile application. 3. Call the EBT vendor at (888) 328-4292. -Avoid simple PINs for your card. -Keep your PIN and card number secret, and change your PIN often. You may want to change your PIN at least one a month, prior to your benefit issuance date. -Know that you have the option to Freeze and Unfreeze your EBT card. When your EBT card is not in use, you can freeze your card and unfreeze your card when you need to use it again for purchases. -Block out-of-state and online transactions. Fraudulent transactions have been reported to occur with online and out-of-state transactions. You may block these types of purchase when you are not traveling out of state or not shopping online. -Beware of Phishing schemes. State agencies and EBT processors will never call or text you to ask for your PIN or card number. Be cautious when you receive these requests and do not share your personal information. Additional information: For additional information, please call the Public Assistance Information System (PAIS) call center at (855) 643-1643 and ask to speak to a live agent.