The Iowa Attorney General’s Office issued an advisory this (Wednesday) morning warning Iowans of a recent increase in attempted EBT-related scams. EBT cards are used as a means to distribute food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and AG’s Office received multiple reports from Iowans receiving text messages claiming their EBT cards are locked with a phone number to dial for assistance. Officials say these messages do not originate from HHS and are an attempt to gain access to SNAP funds. Representatives from the Iowa AG’s Office said, “This scam is particularly serious because those who receive benefits rely on these funds to feed their families. However, benefits lost due to fraudulent or scam activity cannot be replaced.” Iowans who suspect a spam text are reminded not to reply or click on links provided in unsolicited messages and delete any messages requesting personal information. If unsure if a message is legitimate, contact the agency in question directly using a phone number or website you know is real. Suspected scam texts concerning locked EBT cards should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission through the link included below.
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https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/
