(NEXSTAR) – A looming halt on SNAP benefits is on the horizon, prompting concerns that millions of Americans could face increased risk from fraudsters.
Over 40 million individuals, including a significant number of children, are set to see their food aid exhausted as of November 1. The federal government has stated that it will not be distributing any Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits during November, provided the government shutdown persists.
This situation offers a chance for scammers to exploit individuals who might be more desperate to access their offers, according to Clayton Liabraaten, a senior advisor at Anti-Fraud Apps.
“With the government shutdown in play, these scammers are looking to take advantage of people’s fears regarding losing their benefits,” Liabraaten mentioned.
Fraudsters often impersonate SNAP representatives, soliciting personal details to “unblock” or “unlock” EBT cards. They sometimes claim that the card belongs to the recipient. Requests for PIN numbers or EBT card numbers over the phone are common.
Using this information, scammers could drain the victim’s SNAP balance or engage in identity theft.
Liabraaten points out several warning signs that can help individuals avoid being swindled out of their SNAP benefits. Firstly, be cautious of any unsolicited phone calls or texts.
“An official SNAP rep won’t reach out to you out of the blue. If you didn’t initiate the contact, proceed with caution,” he advised.
It’s also important to stay alert if you’re pressured to respond quickly. “Scammers often use psychological tactics to instill a false urgency, suggesting your benefits are running out or you need to act swiftly to secure them. This pressure can cloud your judgment and lead you to share personal info.”
Liabraaten recommends if you receive any communication about SNAP benefits that seems suspicious, take a moment to pause before replying. Instead, contact your state or county’s official SNAP hotline for guidance.
What will happen to my SNAP benefits after November 1st?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed that no federal food assistance will be available in November if the government shutdown continues.
While SNAP is federally funded, it is operated at the state level. The USDA has a shutdown contingency plan that allows states to use reserve funds to maintain SNAP operations in the event of a prolonged shutdown. However, the previous administration opted not to pursue this route.
States have reacted differently to this development. Some are leveraging emergency funds to sustain benefits, while others advise residents to seek assistance from food banks and charities.
EBT cards will still be operational in November, although no new funds may be added. Any leftover benefits from the prior month will carry over, and any balance remaining will be accessible past November 1st.
