EBT Skimming Information
Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski October 15, 2025 | 1:13 PM
A Message from Representative Eddie Day Pashinski
Unfortunately, EBT skimming has become a growing problem here in Pennsylvania and across the country. These scams can steal benefits from families who depend on them the most and it’s simply not right, this is stealing and that is against the law.
If you think your EBT card may have been skimmed or your benefits stolen, there are steps you can take right away to protect yourself and get help. Below, you’ll find information on what to do and who to contact if this happens to you.
As always, my office is here to assist however we can, don’t hesitate to reach out.
- Representative Eddie Day Pashinski
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If you believe your EBT card was skimmed or your benefits were stolen, here’s what you need to do right away:
- Report the theft immediately.
Call the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) at 1-800-328-7366 to report that your card was compromised.
- Get a new card.
Go to your local County Assistance Office (CAO) and request a replacement EBT card. They can also help you check your account for unauthorized charges.
- Report the theft to investigators.
Contact the Pennsylvania Office of State Inspector General’s (OSIG) Skimming Task Force at 1-800-932-0582 to report the theft. This helps law enforcement track and stop skimming activity.
- Change your PIN immediately.
Even if you haven’t lost benefits, it’s smart to reset your EBT PIN regularly - especially if you’ve used your card at an unfamiliar ATM or store.
- Stay alert.
Keep checking your balance and transaction history. Avoid using EBT cards in machines that look damaged, have loose parts, or seem suspicious.
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What is Skimming
Skimming happens when illegal devices are installed on checkout terminal machines and are designed to steal consumer’s financial information, money, or benefits. Skimming has been on the rise and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients are often a target. SNAP benefits are appealing to criminals because Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are not chip-enabled, making them an easy target.
Thieves use a skimming device to copy EBT card information. They then use that information to make fake EBT cards and purchase food and beverages with the stolen SNAP benefits.
How to Recognize a Skimming Device
Skimming devices, often called skimmers, are designed to blend in and deceive customers, but there are ways to identify a fraudulent device.
- Observe the size. Skimming devices are often placed over the legitimate card reader. Making them larger than legitimate card readers.
- Skimming devices are often attached with glue or tape. Pull at the edges of the keypad before entering your PIN.
- Look for security stickers. Some legitimate devices may have a security label or holographic decal on the front or top of the card reader.
The image above shows the slight differences between a skimming device and legitimate card reader. The device on the left is a skimmer. The edges are larger than the legitimate device shown on the right. These subtle differences are designed to trick consumers.
As always, if you need additional assistance with this or state-related services or departments, my staff and I are here to help!
