Beware the Skimmer Lurking in the Shadows: The Fright Files Case #003

The Case of the Disappearing Benefits

Imagine heading to the grocery store, ready to purchase food for your family, only to discover that your EBT benefits have mysteriously vanished.

The culprit? It could be a card skimmer—a small device that criminals secretly attach to payment terminals to steal your card information.

These devices can be difficult to spot, and thieves may use the information they collect to create counterfeit cards and drain benefits from unsuspecting households.

This Cyber Security Awareness Month, InRoads Credit Union is opening another Fright File to investigate the hidden dangers of EBT card skimming, expose the warning signs, and share practical ways to help protect your benefits.   

 

The Suspect: A Skimmer in Disguise

A card skimmer is an illegal device placed over or inside a legitimate card reader. When you swipe your card, the device can capture information stored on its magnetic stripe. Criminals may also use hidden cameras or altered keypads to steal your PIN.

With your card information and PIN, thieves can create counterfeit cards and make unauthorized purchases or withdrawals.

The frightening part? Your actual EBT card may never leave your possession. You might not realize anything is wrong until you check your balance or attempt to make a purchase.  

 

The Evidence: Five Warning Signs of a Hidden Skimmer

Before swiping your EBT card, take a moment to investigate the payment terminal. A few seconds of observation may reveal something suspicious.

Learn more: Protect Your SNAP Benefits from Illegal Card Skimmers 

Clue #1: A Loose or Crooked Card Reader 

Does the card reader look crooked, unusually bulky, or poorly attached? Skimming devices are sometimes placed directly over legitimate equipment, leaving loose edges or an awkward fit.

Clue #2: A Keypad That Doesn't Look Quite Right 

An unusually thick keypad, mismatched buttons, or a raised surface could indicate that an additional device has been installed over the original keypad. 

Clue #3: Unusual Colors or Mismatched Parts 

Look for faceplates that don't match the rest of the machine, unusual seams, or components that appear newer or different from the surrounding equipment.

Clue #4: Covered Lights or Other Features

An added device may partially cover indicator lights, illuminated keypad numbers, or other features of the original payment terminal.

Clue #5: Something Suspicious Near the Keypad 

Criminals sometimes hide tiny cameras near payment terminals to record customers entering their PINs. Be cautious of unusual attachments or objects positioned directly above the keypad.

These are possible warning signs, not proof of tampering. Some skimmers are extremely difficult to detect.

If something looks suspicious, don't use the terminal. Notify a store employee and ask to use another payment method or checkout station. 

 

Your Assignment: Keep Your Benefits Out of the Wrong Hands

Even the most observant investigator can't spot every skimmer. That's why it's important to take additional precautions every time you use your EBT card. 

• • Shield your PIN. Cover the keypad with your free hand whenever you enter your PIN.
    
    
  • Change your PIN regularly. Avoid predictable combinations, such as 1234 or your birth year.
    
    
  • Consider changing your PIN shortly before your benefits are deposited.
    
    
  • Monitor your balance. Review your EBT transactions regularly and investigate purchases you don't recognize.
    
    
  • Keep your card information private. Never provide your card number or PIN in response to an unexpected phone call, email, or text.
    
    
  • Use available card security features. Check whether your state's EBT program allows you to freeze your card or block certain transactions when you're not using it.

These precautions are recommended by federal food assistance officials to help reduce the risk of benefit theft. 

Learn more: Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits

 

A Frightening Discovery: What If Your Benefits Have Already Disappeared?

If you discover unfamiliar transactions or suspect someone has stolen your EBT information, don't wait to investigate.

Immediately change your PIN, contact your state's EBT customer service number, and report the suspicious activity to your local benefits office. Ask about replacing your compromised card and whether any stolen-benefit assistance is available.

Replacement eligibility varies. Federal authority to reimburse certain stolen SNAP benefits expired in December 2024, so you should not assume stolen benefits will be restored. 

 

Case Closed: Don't Let Skimmers Steal the Show!

Card skimmers may be designed to hide in plain sight, but knowing what to look for can help you recognize suspicious equipment before you swipe.

Whether you're using an EBT card, debit card, or credit card, make it a habit to inspect payment terminals, protect your PIN, and monitor your transactions.

The investigation doesn't end here! Follow InRoads Credit Union throughout Cyber Security Awareness Month as we continue opening The Fright Files and exposing the tricks and traps criminals use to target your finances.

Stay alert. Examine the evidence. And don't let scammers make your money disappear!