EBT Hacking: Millions Stolen from Vulnerable Recipients

Millions of dollars have been stolen from Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) accounts in a widespread hacking scheme, affecting vulnerable recipients like Frances Jacobson of Mobile, Alabama, who lost nearly all her funds. Hackers use methods such as skimmers on card readers and exploiting third-party vendor vulnerabilities to steal sensitive information. In response, Alabama’s Department of Human Resources (DHR) is upgrading to chip-enabled EBT cards and encouraging users to protect their accounts through secure PINs, frequent account monitoring, and card-locking features.
Victims can report stolen benefits within 30 days to potentially receive reimbursements through a federal initiative. With the holiday season approaching, the theft has created significant hardships for families relying on this assistance. Although preventive measures are being implemented, the persistent attacks highlight a broader need for stronger financial security systems and public awareness campaigns. State and federal agencies are focused on ensuring uninterrupted access to essential benefits while addressing emerging threats.

Source: Cyber Press

If you’re not familiar with EBT accounts, they are specialized accounts that facilitate the distribution of government assistance benefits electronically. These accounts are primarily used in programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) in the United States.