State data: Nearly $400,000 in EBT card skimming fraud reported during the holidays
New data from the Minnesota Department of Human Services shows $392,075 in EBT fraud-related bills paid to victims of card skimming and cloning in the last two months, records show.
The amount of fraud discovered was the highest the Minnesota DHS had ever seen, the statement said.
“When people receiving benefits are targeted, it hits hard, especially during the holiday season, when budgets are tight,” said Tikki Brown, assistant DHS secretary.
Data provided to 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS through a public records request from DHS regarding EBT card skimming and cloning fraud includes reports submitted by 148 households in December and 579 households in January. It seems that the book is being shown.
RELATED: DHS warns Minnesotans of rising EBT fraud, urges protective measures
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Enforcement continues to investigate reported EBT fraud.
Ramsey County prosecutors are issuing an arrest warrant for a man accused of subway fraud, according to court records.
Minnesota’s EBT cards are loaded with public assistance funds each month to help low-income families in need through cash transfers, food transfers, or sometimes both.
Back in December, DHS warned EBT users to be wary of skimming devices at checkout counters after fraud occurred in other states.
RELATED: Search warrant sheds light on EBT skimming investigations across metro area
Skimmers can steal PINs, account numbers, and other information from your card without your knowledge.
“We were watching other states, especially Texas and California, which were hit pretty hard. To be honest, we didn’t expect our state to be hit. ,” Brown said. “When that happened, our hearts broke for the family.”
DHS continues to encourage families receiving assistance to use the free “ebtEDGE” mobile app, which allows cardholders to freeze their cards and block online and out-of-state transactions.
Another suggestion from DHS is for EBT cardholders to change their PIN frequently to protect their information.
RELATED: Two arrested in EBT theft cases across metro
