New Security Measures for Ohio SNAP Recipients to Combat Fraud
Starting Wednesday, Ohio residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will face new safeguards designed to protect their funds from theft and fraud. The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS) has announced that SNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards will now default to a locked status, requiring recipients to unlock them before making online or out-of-state purchases.
The move comes in response to a surge in fraudulent activities targeting vulnerable families who rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. According to ODJFS Director Matt Damschroder, criminals frequently exploit online and out-of-state transactions to steal funds. “These new measures are a simple yet effective way to reduce the risk of theft while still allowing families to access their benefits when needed,” he said.
How the New System Works
Under the enhanced security system, SNAP recipients must manually unlock their EBT cards for out-of-state or online purchases. Once unlocked, cardholders can choose a time frame—30, 60, or 90 minutes—before the card automatically relocks. This feature aims to minimize exposure to potential fraud while maintaining convenience for users.
The changes were prompted by alarming data showing a significant rise in skimming incidents. Over the past six months, nearly 56,000 suspicious out-of-state transactions were reported, affecting 12,900 Ohio EBT accounts and costing more than $6.3 million in stolen benefits.
Protecting Your Benefits
To manage their cards, Ohio SNAP recipients can use the ConnectEBT website, the official ConnectEBT app, or call 1-866-386-3071. Damschroder emphasized that opting into the “lock everywhere” feature provides the highest level of security and is available immediately.
For those who rarely make online or out-of-state purchases, the impact of these changes will be minimal. However, for cardholders who do, unlocking their cards is described as a quick and straightforward process.
ODJFS also shared practical tips to help SNAP recipients safeguard their funds:
- Download the ConnectEBT app to manage benefits and enable card-lock features.
- Create a strong, unique PIN and change it monthly.
- Never share card numbers or PINs.
- Inspect card readers for signs of tampering before use.
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
A Lifeline for Families
SNAP benefits serve as a critical lifeline for thousands of Ohio families struggling with food insecurity. The new security measures aim to ensure these funds reach their intended recipients, providing peace of mind amid rising concerns about fraud.
As Damschroder put it, “Our priority is to protect the families who rely on these benefits. These enhancements are a step toward making sure that every dollar goes where it should—feeding Ohioans in need.”
— Reported by Nexio News
