An investigation into multiple cases of fraud in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Patrick County has entered its second week.
The Patrick County Sheriff's Office and the Patrick County Department of Social Services are jointly investigating the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program, which they believe began in June and continued through August, potentially involving as many as 50 accounts, according to the Sheriff's Office.
Investigators from both agencies became aware that benefits were not being made available to some recipients and began working to determine a timeline and how the information may have been compromised, according to a release.
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It appears that the bulk of the EBT cards were compromised by "skimming," a process in which the thief steals the information from the magnetic strip on a debit, credit, or EBT card and then captures the Personal Identification Number (PIN) from the card.
"Investigators have been working in conjunction with the businesses that may have had skimmers on their machines, to gather intelligence about those who were affected," the release said.
"Scammers are attempting to steal card benefits nationwide by tricking you into sharing your EBT card number or your personal identification number. The Virginia Department of Social Services and the USDA are working together to actively monitor this fraudulent activity and keep the public informed," a release from the Virginia Department of Social Services stated.
As the investigation continues, the Patrick County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who believes his or her card may have been used without permission to contact Butch Coleman with the Department of Social Services by calling the phone number on the back of your card, or contact investigators Robbie Haynes or Jason Kruse at 276-694-3161.
Meanwhile, when using your EBT card, the Sheriff's Office recommends checking the machine you are using for anything unusual. If you find anything suspicious, report it to the authorities.
The Department of Social Services has introduced a new app that allows EBT users to lock and unlock cards. The feature may be utilized by going to dss.virginia.gov and typing "ConnectEBT LOCK/UNLOCK, into the search bar and following the directions. The app is also available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Bill Wyatt
(276) 591-7543
@billdwyatt on Twitter
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