Rising Fraud in SNAP Programs
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Fraud targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is escalating across the United States, affecting thousands of vulnerable individuals. The increase in scams, including card cloning, phishing, and skimming, is alarming officials and beneficiaries alike.
Ohio Case Highlights Growing Problem
According to lagradaonline, Recent reports reveal a surge in SNAP fraud, exemplified by the case of Ohio resident Jason Nichols, who lost $291 in benefits due to card cloning. Scammers used his EBT card in Illinois, underscoring the widespread nature of these crimes.
Nationwide Impact and Statistics
Fraud statistics are staggering. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service reported nearly 177,000 fraud cases in the first quarter of 2024. New York is the most affected state with 34,306 cases, while Illinois, Maryland, and Texas also report significant numbers.
Legal and Legislative Responses
In response, several legislative measures have been proposed. New York is considering making SNAP fraud a class D felony and conducting a study to better understand and combat these crimes. Representative Iwen Chu emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect those reliant on SNAP benefits.
Preventative Measures for SNAP Recipients
To safeguard against SNAP fraud, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services recommends the following steps:
- Create a Unique PIN: Use a difficult-to-guess PIN and change it monthly.
- Protect Your Information: Never share your card number or PIN.
- Inspect Card Readers: Check for skimming devices before use.
- Guard Your PIN: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
By staying vigilant and following these precautions, SNAP recipients can better protect themselves from falling victim to fraud.