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Albany County residents are being warned about a rise in thefts targeting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The Albany County Department of Social Services reports that thieves use skimming devices installed in card readers to capture card data and PIN numbers, which leads to unauthorized access to benefits. Skimming can also occur through fraudulent Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card point-of-sale machines. Unfortunately, stolen SNAP benefits cannot be replaced under current New York State rules.
To help combat this issue, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance has introduced the ebtEDGE app. This app allows users to freeze and unfreeze their EBT cards, blocking unauthorized transactions. The app is available for download on both Android and Apple devices. Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions, stating, "These benefits are a lifeline for many residents throughout the Capital Region, and it is shameful that these thieves continue to target these families."
Residents are advised to report any suspected benefit theft to their local police department and contact the Albany County Department of Social Services for assistance. Additionally, Albany County Department of Social Services Commissioner Erin M. Stachewicz recommends changing PINs after each use to further protect benefits. For more information on securing EBT cards, residents can visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website.