Families in neighborhoods from Brooklyn to small towns nationwide are being hit by a surge of credit‑card skimming operations that specifically target Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. Unlike most modern debit and credit cards that use encrypted EMV chips, many EBT cards still rely on magnetic‑stripe technology, making the data on a swipe easy to copy.
How the scheme works
Scammers place tiny, often invisible devices on point‑of‑sale (POS) terminals and ATMs. When an EBT card is swiped, the device reads the unencrypted magnetic data and stores it for later use. The stolen information can then be used to create counterfeit cards or to withdraw funds directly, leaving the cardholder with a depleted balance.
Federal response
The U.S. Secret Service, which leads the federal effort against payment‑card fraud, reports that skimming incidents at POS terminals and ATMs account for more than $1 billion in losses each year. In June 2026, agents from the Secret Service’s New York Field Office teamed with local law‑enforcement officials for a three‑day sweep of Brooklyn, the Bronx and Queens. The operation removed dozens of illegal skimming devices and warned that dense urban areas with many small retailers present a “target‑rich environment” for fraudsters.
That sweep follows a 2025 nationwide campaign that saw over 400 skimming devices seized and an estimated $428 million in fraud prevented. Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool emphasized that stealing EBT information from “hard‑working New Yorkers” is far from victimless, as it directly undermines the ability of families to put food on the table.
Protecting yourself
The Secret Service recommends several simple habits to reduce risk:
- Inspect card‑readers for any signs of tampering before use. Look for loose parts, unusual stickers or overlays.
- Prefer chip‑enabled or contactless (tap‑to‑pay) transactions whenever possible, as these encrypt data and are far harder to skim.
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder‑surfing.
- Monitor your EBT balance regularly and report any unexpected deductions immediately.
- If you suspect your card has been compromised, contact the issuing agency or your bank’s fraud department right away to freeze the account, deactivate the card, and request a new one with a fresh PIN.
Impact on families
For many households, EBT benefits represent a vital source of nutrition. When those funds disappear, families may face difficult choices about meals, medical care, or other essential expenses. Community organizations and local churches are stepping up to provide emergency assistance, but the best defense remains vigilance at the point of sale.
As criminals become more sophisticated, the partnership between federal investigators and local retailers is crucial. Store owners are encouraged to work with law‑enforcement to report suspicious devices and to keep their POS equipment up to date with the latest security features.
Looking ahead
The Secret Service has indicated that the crackdown will continue nationwide, with additional sweeps planned for other high‑risk regions. Consumers are urged to stay informed, protect their cards, and spread awareness among friends and neighbors to help stop the flow of stolen benefits.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
