Boston — Officials are warning the public as over $1.6 million in Massachusetts benefits have been stolen over the last 6 months.
This past summer, the Department of Transitional Assistance issued additional warnings to residents of skimming scams that have impacted some DTA clients. The agency and its investigations team became aware of banks and retailers who appear to have had their ATMs and card processing terminals compromised. These scams are aimed at obtaining credit, debit and Electronic Benefit Transfer card information and Personal Identification Numbers. Skimming is the use of an electronic device to steal card information from a card reader and create a fake card, known as cloning, to steal money or benefits.
As a precaution, DTA strongly recommends that clients change the PIN on their EBT cards at this time and before each scheduled benefit issuance date. Clients do not need to receive a new card to safely access their benefits. The Department has taken several preemptive steps to help protect clients’ benefits, including sending out multiple targeted text messages and creating a notice to inform clients and encourage them to re-PIN their card. The agency also created a webpage on Skimming and how to protect benefits.
Clients who receive TAFDC or EAEDC cash benefits can have their benefits sent to a checking or savings account through direct deposit. Residents can contact their case manager if they have a bank account and want to…
