With 15.4% of households experiencing food insecurity, Oklahoma is one of the hungriest states in the nation. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is an essential support to low-income families, helping them put food on the table and meet their nutritional needs.
SNAP’s impact extends beyond individual households. It serves as a powerful economic stimulus, injecting millions of dollars into Oklahoma’s economy. This economic boost is particularly important in rural areas where food insecurity is often more prevalent.
However, in recent months, Oklahoma has seen a rise in SNAP benefit theft, making it important for recipients to protect their benefits from scammers. The most effective steps to safeguard SNAP benefits are:
- Choose a Secure PIN: Set a strong, unique PIN that’s hard to guess. Avoid easy sequences or personal details like birthdates. Choose a combination only you would know.
- Monitor and Lock Your Card: Use the ConnectEBT app or portal to track account activity and lock your card when not in use. This added security helps prevent unauthorized transactions.
Additional Precautions:
- Treat your EBT card like a debit card. Never share your PIN or card info and be cautious of unsolicited calls or texts requesting this information. Oklahoma Human Services will never ask for your Social Security number or PIN.
- When using the card, inspect card readers for suspicious devices, and shield the keypad while entering your PIN to avoid skimming scams.
- Ignore phishing attempts. Calls, texts, or emails claiming your card is locked or deactivated are common tactics to steal your information.
If you suspect your benefits have been stolen, report it immediately to Oklahoma Human Services at 405-522-5050. Current regulations allow applications for stolen benefits replacement until December 20, 2024, with a limit of two fraud reimbursements per year.
To learn more about SNAP fraud, read Hunger Free Oklahoma’s recent blog here.
By staying vigilant and following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to SNAP benefit theft. Your benefits are a crucial resource for you and your family – protect them as you would your own bank account.
For more information on SNAP or to apply, reach out to the Hunger Free Oklahoma SNAP Application Assistance Hotline at 1 (877) 760-0114, or visit the website here.