EBT Scam Prevention

Our agency is aware of reports of scam phone calls and text messages that are targeting EBT cardholders across Virginia. If you have responded to these messages, immediately call the official EBT customer service phone number (1-866-281-2448) or reach out to your local department of social services. 

Scammers across the country are trying to steal benefits by tricking people into sharing their EBT card number or PIN.

The Virginia Department of Social Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working together to monitor this activity and share ways you can stay safe.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Benefits

You can take these steps today to help keep your benefits secure:

• Never share your EBT card number or PIN
• Change your PIN regularly
• Use only the official ConnectEBT app
• Check your balance often for unexpected activity
• Watch for transactions you do not recognize
  

Extra Protection With Card Lock

The ConnectEBT app now includes a card lock feature. 

You can lock your card when you are not shopping and unlock it when you are ready to check out. This helps prevent unauthorized use between purchases.

You can find this feature in the ConnectEBT app, available for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play.