ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Some Lehigh Valley residents are reporting stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, prompting renewed warnings from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) about electronic theft through card skimming.
While the department said it is not aware of any recent statewide spikes, it confirmed that SNAP skimming incidents have been reported, where thieves steal benefits by attaching devices to point-of-sale machines.
“Individuals are encouraged to report any SNAP theft to local law enforcement,” DHS spokesperson Brandon Cwalina said. “Pennsylvanians are further urged to take an extra look before swiping their card at a point-of-sale machine to ensure there is no skimming attachment, and retailers must also remain vigilant and be responsible for the removal of skimming devices in order to protect their customers.”
The department noted that the federal funding that allowed states to reimburse stolen SNAP benefits expired Dec. 21, 2024.
DHS has added enhanced EBT card PIN security measures to help protect residents. SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can now lock and unlock their cards using the free ConnectEBT app. DHS emphasized that this is the only official app partnered with Pennsylvania for managing the card lock feature.
If SNAP benefits are stolen, residents should immediately report the theft to local police and the Office of State Inspector General by calling 1-800-932-0582. Those affected should also request a replacement EBT card as soon as possible by contacting Conduent at 888-328-7366 or by visiting their County Assistance Office.
For immediate food needs, residents can call 211 or visit pa211.org to connect with local food resources. They can also visit feedingpa.org and pa-navigate.org for help finding food and other assistance programs.