Skip to Main Content

EBT Skimming

Check the Device Twice; Protect Your EBT Card; Closely inspect ATMs or payment machines for unusual, loose, or added equipment such as skimmer or pinhole camera. Report suspicious machines to an attendant and local law enforcement.

See the benefits of enrolling into ebtEDGE

What is a Card Skimmer?
  • A skimmer is a device that thieves place on Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) or payment machines to steal Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card information and benefits.
CARD SKIMMER
Where are Skimmers Located?
  • Skimmers can be found anywhere credit or debit cards can be swiped or inserted. 
  • Most skimming devices used at ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) terminals fit over the original card reader; however, at gas stations, they can also be hidden internally behind the card reader.
  • Fake keypad covers can also be used to record a PIN.
  • Pinhole cameras can be placed above or around the PIN Pad or installed on the ATM to record a customer as they enter their PIN.
An image of a green ATM Machine
Information for Businesses

Protect your customers and businesses by being aware of skimming devices. These devices can read financial information from credit, debit, and EBT cards to steal money from your customers.

How to Spot a Fake EBT Card Reader

  • Skimmers are loose fitting devices that are placed on top of ATMs and POS terminals and have a similar appearance. If the terminal seems loose, contact your local law enforcement agency.
  • Fake card readers can be spotted based on the card length exposed during a transaction. Be cautious if less of the card is exposed when inserted in the POS terminal. 
  • For additional tips, see the Department of Economic Opportunity- Business Notice (Flyer).

Protect your Business and Customers

  • If you see an individual manipulating and tampering your equipment, contact your local law enforcement agency.
  • Inspect your equipment regularly, every few hours on a daily basis. This can help prevent equipment tampering.
  • If you have found that your Point of Sale (POS) commercial equipment has been compromised, contact your equipment provider or third-party processor for assistance with equipment, transaction processing, and settlement. 
  • For support with your state provided EBT POS equipment and other EBT merchant questions, you may call the California EBT Retailer Hotline at (866) 328 - 4212.
Other Resources

 

 

 

See if you qualify for Retroactive Benefit Replacements

EBT Card - Safety Awareness

Protect Your Benefits- PUB 524 (Flyer)

 

Recommended:

  • Change your Personal Identification Number (PIN) often.
  • Check your Cash and/or CalFresh balances regularly.
  • Check ATMs for hidden cameras and/or any unusual equipment.
  • Check Point of Sale (POS) terminals for loose fitting keypad covers.
  • Consider maintaining a low monthly balance of Cash and/or CalFresh benefits on your EBT card.
  • Consider changing your PIN on the evening before your benefits are deposited.
  • Consider changing your PIN whenever a new EBT card is issued.
  • Contact the DPSS Customer Service Center at (866) 613-3777 or go to a DPSS District Office to request your cash benefits via direct deposit.

 

Not Recommended:

  • Carrying a large monthly balance of Cash and/or CalFresh benefits on your EBT card. 
  • Providing a picture or copy of your EBT card to anyone.
  • Providing your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to anyone.
  • Providing your EBT card number to a third-party vendor.
  • Providing your EBT card number on a third-party application.
Image of an EBT Card
What to Do if Your Card is Skimmed?
  • Report any unauthorized charges to DPSS at 866-613-3777 or visit your local DPSS office.
  • You must report stolen CalFresh benefits within ten days of the electronic theft transaction date to be eligible for replacement of stolen benefits.
  • You must complete an Electronic Theft of Cash Aid Form (EBT 2259) within 90 days from the electronic theft transaction in order for cash and/or CalFresh benefits to be replaced. You can also find the ebt 2259 on the BenefitsCal Forms webpage.
  • Report welfare fraud to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Welfare Fraud Hotline at 800-344-8477, or DPSS Central Fraud Reporting Line at 800-349-9970, or Report Fraud Online.
  • Report lost or stolen EBT cards to the EBT – California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Customer Service Line at 877-328-9677, DPSS Customer Service Center at 866-613-3777, or visit your local DPSS office.
What to Do if You Encounter a Skimmer?
  • Alert the Store Clerk or Manager.
  • Contact your local Law Enforcement.
  • Report the incident to DPSS at (866) 613-3777 or to the California Department of Social Services Customer Service Line at 877-328-9677.
  • Request a replacement EBT card and/or PIN number.
  • Monitor your EBT transactions for any unusual activity.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I review my EBT card transactions? 

How can I change my EBT card PIN?

  • Call  the California Department of Social Services Customer Service Line at (877) 328-9677 or go to your local DPSS District Office.

Where are the DPSS District Offices located? 

Can I receive my cash benefits via direct deposit?

  • To receive your cash benefits via direct deposit, contact the DPSS Customer Service Center at (866) 613-3777 or go to your local DPSS District Office.