Card Skimming Scam Steals Millions from Food Benefit Programs
Card Skimming Scam Steals Millions from Food Benefit Programs
A single card skimmer can siphon up to $1 million from food benefit cards, with criminals installing devices in under two seconds—revealed in Secret Service footage.
How the Scam Works
Criminals attach a small, covert skimming device to the magnetic stripe reader of a food benefit card terminal. Once installed, the device captures the card’s data and the PIN entered by the user. The entire process takes less than two seconds, making it almost impossible for a shopper to notice.
Scale of the Theft
According to the Secret Service video, a single skimmer can generate as much as $1 million in stolen funds. The scam is nationwide, affecting thousands of grocery stores and food‑benefit kiosks across the country.
Why Food Benefit Cards Are Targeted
Food benefit cards are used by millions of low‑income families. The high volume of transactions and the often limited security measures on these terminals make them attractive targets for fraudsters.
What Consumers Can Do
Shoppers should inspect card readers for any unusual attachments or loose parts. If a device looks suspicious, report it to the store manager or local law enforcement. Keeping the card’s magnetic stripe face‑down when not in use can also reduce the risk of skimming.
Industry Response
Retailers are urged to upgrade to chip‑and‑pin terminals and to implement real‑time monitoring of card‑reader activity. The Secret Service is working with state agencies to identify and shut down skimming operations.
Source: Fox News
